In a landmark collaboration, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Friday played host to his Bauchi State counterpart, Senator Bala Mohammed, paving the way for a strategic partnership that could transform the agricultural and industrial landscape of both states.
The high-profile meeting, held in Akure, has already yielded promising dividends, with the announcement of a $2.6 billion investment deal spearheaded by Residents Group Cement, led by Executive Director, Dr. Abbas Waziri. The ambitious plan includes the establishment of a fertilizer production and harmonial plant, along with a petrochemical complex, all slated for execution within the next 12 months in Ondo State.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed deep appreciation to Governor Mohammed for facilitating the visit and investment link, highlighting the move as a timely boost for Ondo’s economy and a critical component of his administration’s youth-focused job creation strategy.
“This is in alignment with our economic roadmap for industrialisation and youth employment,” Aiyedatiwa said. “We are building the infrastructure, including the dualisation of Igbokoda–Okitipupa road, to support such investments.”
The Governor further stressed his commitment to completing the Ondo Deep Seaport project, describing it as a “game-changer” that will open up vast trade and shipping opportunities for the region.
In his remarks, Governor Bala Mohammed praised his host’s proactive governance and described the collaboration as a model of inter-state cooperation that can help states break free from overdependence on federal allocations.
“We in Bauchi are proud to align with what you are doing in Ondo. It reflects our shared goal of diversifying our economy and empowering our people,” he said.
The investor, Dr. Waziri, who previously established a $1.5 billion cement plant in Bauchi, said Ondo was chosen due to its strategic location, rich natural resources, and investor-friendly policies.
“We’re committing $2.6 billion to develop fertilizer, harmonial, and petrochemical plants in Ondo. With the support of the government, we expect to commence operations within 12 months,” Waziri stated.
He commended the synergy between the Ondo and Bauchi governments, noting it as a rare example of peer-driven development politics in Nigeria.
Key officials present at the meeting included Ondo State Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, SSG Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, and ONDIPA Administrative Secretary Barr. Emmanuel Omomowo.
As the plan progresses, thousands of jobs are expected to be created, with significant ripple effects on agribusiness, local content development, and infrastructure growth.
