Ondo State has been identified as one of the prime destinations recommended to American investors seeking opportunities in Nigeria, following a high-level engagement between Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and officials of the United States Embassy in Abuja.
During the meeting on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, Governor Aiyedatiwa unveiled the state’s investment blueprint, highlighting strategic projects including the proposed deep sea port, petrochemical hub, refinery, and agribusiness ventures within the state’s free trade zone.
He said Ondo State, blessed with vast coastline, rich mineral resources, and being Nigeria’s leading producer of cocoa, is well-positioned to host transformative economic projects that will decongest Lagos ports and boost maritime trade across West Africa.
“We presented to them the opportunities in our deep sea port project, the petrochemical and refinery plants, and other strategic investments. They encouraged us strongly, acknowledging that these projects are good not only for the state, but also for Nigeria,” the Governor told journalists after the meeting.
The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, commended Ondo’s efforts to improve its business climate and enhance security. He confirmed that Ondo has now been placed on the U.S. investors’ recommendation list.
“The issue of security is always key when advising our citizens and investors on destinations. We are impressed with Ondo’s stability, especially the role of Amotekun in complementing national security efforts,” Ambassador Mills said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the talks were fruitful and timely, noting that his administration has already signed Memoranda of Understanding with over five major investors in the last six months.
He described the U.S. nod as a boost to his administration’s drive to attract foreign direct investment:
“This engagement has laid a strong foundation for deeper U.S.-Ondo State relations in trade and investment. It is a vote of confidence in our vision for industrialization, agriculture, and maritime development.”
