An Evening with the Governor,” Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a favorable environment for private investors as a strategy to drive economic growth and development in the state. The engagement, held at the International Centre for Culture and Events in Akure, was organized by the group “Friends of Lucky” and aimed at strengthening partnerships between the government and private sector stakeholders.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the private sector is not only essential for economic growth but also a crucial partner in effective governance. He assured the audience of the administration’s continued support for private investments, highlighting ongoing efforts to make Ondo State more business-friendly. This includes initiatives like the establishment of the Ondo State Investment and Development Promotion Agency (ONDIPA) to improve the ease of doing business.
Aiyedatiwa also acknowledged the late former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s role in laying the groundwork for many of these initiatives, particularly the Ondo-Linyi Industrial Hub at the Ore Industrial Park, a successful collaboration with China’s Linyi Province that has significantly boosted the state’s economy.
The governor expressed confidence in the state’s abundant resources, including fertile agricultural land, mineral wealth, and a dynamic youth population, which he believes will attract and sustain private investments. He assured potential investors of the state’s safety, peaceful environment, and streamlined business processes facilitated by dedicated agencies.
Guest speakers at the event, Dr. Abiola Oshodi and Chief Alex Ajipe, highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in revitalizing industries and advancing the state’s economy. The event’s convener, Bankole Joseph Betiku, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the role of the private sector in fostering sustainable economic growth and good governance in Ondo State. The event aimed to spark valuable collaborations and innovative solutions for the state’s future development.