The Federal Government revalidates Ondo Deep Sea Port certificate, aiming to expand port capacity, trade, industrialisation, and non-oil exports

Nigeria’s efforts to expand port capacity and unlock its blue economy received a major boost with the Federal Government’s formal revalidation of the Ondo Deep Sea Port certificate.

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The announcement was made yesterday in Abuja by Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.

The certificate was presented last Thursday by Minister Adegboyega Oyetola to Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Oyetola described the revalidation as a strategic federal intervention to unlock Ondo State’s maritime potential and align port development with the Tinubu administration’s economic diversification agenda.

“The Ondo Deep Sea Port is not just a project for Ondo State; it is a national asset that will strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in global shipping, reduce pressure on existing ports, and create a new hub for exports, manufacturing, and job creation,” Oyetola said.

He added that the port’s Atlantic-facing location positions it to boost non-oil exports, improve logistics efficiency, and attract foreign direct investment.

The minister noted that the revalidated licence provides certainty for investors and signals Nigeria’s readiness for serious maritime investments.

Planned supporting infrastructure will position Ondo as a major player in the country’s emerging blue economy.

Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council for approving the revalidation, describing it as the result of years of effort to revive the stalled project.

“This revalidated certificate is a turning point for Ondo State. It validates our vision for industrial growth, job creation, and sustainable development anchored on our long coastline and maritime assets,” the governor said.

Aiyedatiwa highlighted that his administration is prioritising infrastructure, including dualisation of access roads and modernisation projects, as well as residential, educational, and hospitality facilities to support incoming investors, workers, and service providers.

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He added that the port is expected to have a ripple effect across all local government areas, driving inclusive development and reinforcing Ondo’s role in Nigeria’s growing blue economy.