Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has urged investors from the United States to take advantage of the vast opportunities available in the state’s industrial and agricultural sectors.
The Governor made the appeal on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, during a visit to the United States Embassy in Abuja, where he held discussions with American officials on potential areas of collaboration.
Highlighting key projects, Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that Ondo State is ready to welcome foreign partners for the development of its proposed deep sea port, petrochemical hub, refinery, and agribusiness ventures, all strategically positioned within the state’s free trade zone.
He explained that the planned deep sea port would serve as a viable alternative to decongest Lagos’ Apapa and Tin Can ports, stressing that Ondo’s coastal location makes it a strategic hub for international trade.
The Governor further disclosed that his administration had, in the past six months, signed Memoranda of Understanding with more than five major local and foreign investors, demonstrating a strong commitment to economic growth.
In his response, United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, commended the efforts of the Ondo State Government to improve its business climate and enhance security. He confirmed that Ondo has now been listed among states recommended to U.S. investors seeking opportunities in Nigeria.
Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Governor Aiyedatiwa said: “Of interest to them is our deep sea port and the petrochemical and refinery plants coming up in the free trade zone area. They encouraged us strongly because it is something good not only for the state, but for the country. They also noted our long coastline, with proximity to Lagos through the coastal highway. Given our location, Ondo State will host a worthy port.”
The Governor added that discussions also touched on security, with the U.S. officials acknowledging the impact of the Amotekun Corps in complementing conventional security agencies. He revealed that the recognition of Amotekun by the United Nations, which recently declared July 7 as World Amotekun Day, was also noted with interest.
Describing the meeting as “timely and fruitful,” Governor Aiyedatiwa said the engagement laid a strong foundation for improved U.S.–Ondo State relations in trade, investment, and security cooperation.
