••• Prioritizes Environmental Protection in Investment Agreements
The Ondo State Government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the environment and lives of residents as a core condition in all agreements signed with investors.
This assurance was given by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Taiwo Fasonranti, while addressing participants of the Senior Executive Course 47 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), who are on a study tour of the state.
Dr. Fasonranti emphasized that while Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is focused on transforming the state’s economy, the wellbeing of the people and protection of natural resources remain non-negotiable.
“His Excellency is not only passionate about economic growth but equally insists that investors must prioritize the protection of our environment and our people,” he said.
The SSG also revealed the state’s plan to harness its bitumen resources in partnership with stakeholders, ensuring that environmental standards are strictly adhered to. He said the administration is laying the groundwork for the transformation of Araromi Seaside into a full-fledged tourism destination.
“Tourism is high on the Governor’s agenda. Only last week, we hosted top tourism operators from across Nigeria. The Araromi Seaside holds vast potential, and our administration is committed to developing it responsibly,” he added.
Dr. Fasonranti also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the state’s healthcare system. He said Ondo now boasts 15 general hospitals, 29 comprehensive health centres, and 203 basic health centres—many of which are currently undergoing renovations to align with the administration’s Universal Health Coverage agenda.
In his remarks, the NIPSS team leader, Mohammed Kabir Suleiman, said the visit was anchored on exploring pathways to sustainable development. He led participants in a minute of silence to honour the recent passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari and the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona.
Several lectures were delivered during the event, including:
“Unlocking Investment Potential in the Blue Economy: The Proposed Deep-Sea Port and Free Trade Zone in Ondo” by Barr. Emmanuel Omomowo of the Ondo State Investment Promotion and Development Agency.
“Promoting Environmental Stewardship and Coastal Ecosystem Protection for a Sustainable Blue Economy” by Mr. Olumide Kinga of the Ministry of Environment.
“The Proposed Araromi Seaside Master Plan” presented on behalf of Chief Gbenga Akingbasote, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, by the Director of Master Plan, Abimbola Tofowomo.
Chief Akingbasote explained that the state has initiated the development of comprehensive master plans for all major towns, stressing that enforcement of building approvals is now being strictly monitored to prevent structural failures.
Also present at the event was Hon. Sunday Olajide, the newly sworn-in Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, who pledged his commitment to actualizing the government’s vision for Araromi Seaside.
He expressed optimism that the NIPSS team’s findings and engagements in the state would greatly aid sustainable development, not just in Ondo, but across Nigeria.
Souvenirs were presented to dignitaries including Dr. Taiwo Fasonranti, Hon. Sunday Olajide, and Chief Gbenga Akingbasote.
Hon. Dipo Ogunleye represented members of the National Institute from Ekiti State, while Pastor Adeyemi Adeyemo, Permanent Secretary, Cabinet and Special Services, welcomed participants on behalf of the Governor’s Office, expressing confidence that the insights from the event would positively impact economic planning at both state and national levels.
