•••OWN ONDO 2028 Convener Outlines Path to Sustainable Development
The Convener of OWN ONDO 2028, Prince Demola Adeloye, has declared that Ondo State possesses the resources and human capital required to become one of Nigeria’s leading economic hubs, stressing that the challenge before the state is not poverty but the need for strategic planning and effective execution.
Adeloye, in a message centred on the theme “Forward Thinking,” highlighted key sectors that could redefine the state’s future if properly harnessed.
Population: Over Five Million People, A Huge Human Capital Advantage
According to Adeloye, Ondo State’s population of over five million people represents a major asset capable of driving economic growth and attracting investments.
He noted that a productive and skilled population provides the labour force, market size and entrepreneurial capacity required to stimulate industrial development and sustainable prosperity.
Agriculture: Turning Comparative Advantage Into Economic Strength
Describing agriculture as one of the state’s greatest strengths, the OWN ONDO 2028 convener said Ondo’s vast arable land and favourable climate offer enormous opportunities for food production and agro-industrial development.
He stressed that modernising agriculture and promoting value addition would create employment opportunities, boost internally generated revenue and strengthen food security.
Oil and Gas: Leveraging Natural Resources For Growth
Adeloye said the state’s oil and gas resources position Ondo as a strategic player in Nigeria’s energy sector.
According to him, prudent management and investments in the sector can stimulate industrial activities, create jobs and provide the revenue needed to finance critical infrastructure and social services.
Bitumen Deposits: Unlocking Africa’s Largest Reserve
He described Ondo State’s bitumen deposits—the largest in Africa, as one of its most valuable untapped assets.
Adeloye stated that proper exploitation of the resource could attract investors, support road construction, stimulate local industries and diversify the state’s economy beyond dependence on federal allocations.
Atlantic Coastline: A Gateway To Maritime Development
The OWN ONDO 2028 convener also pointed to the state’s approximately 75 kilometres of Atlantic coastline as a strategic advantage capable of driving maritime commerce, tourism and industrial growth.
He said the coastline presents opportunities for port development, fisheries, logistics and other blue economy initiatives capable of generating wealth and employment.
Industrialisation: Creating Wealth Through Value Addition
Adeloye maintained that natural resources alone do not guarantee development, insisting that industrialisation remains the key to transforming raw materials into finished products and creating sustainable wealth.
He advocated policies that would encourage manufacturing, processing industries and private sector participation in economic development.
Education and Healthcare: Investing In Human Development
He further emphasised the importance of quality education and modern healthcare systems, saying investment in human capital would prepare young people for emerging opportunities and improve the quality of life of citizens.
According to him, no society can achieve meaningful progress without a healthy and educated population.
Security and Infrastructure: Foundations For Prosperity
Adeloye identified security and infrastructure as essential requirements for economic growth and investment attraction.
He argued that improving roads, power supply and other critical infrastructure, alongside ensuring the safety of lives and property, would provide an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
Technology and Innovation: Preparing For The Future
The OWN ONDO 2028 convener called for greater emphasis on technological advancement and innovation, saying digital transformation and knowledge-driven industries would define the future of economic competitiveness.
He urged government and stakeholders to invest in innovation, entrepreneurship and skills acquisition to prepare the state’s youths for the opportunities of the 21st century.
Accountable Governance: The Pillar Of Sustainable Development
Adeloye stressed that transparency, accountability and effective leadership are indispensable for the actualisation of the state’s development aspirations.
“The future of Ondo State will not be built by slogans alone. It will be built through deliberate policies, investment attraction, agricultural modernisation, industrialization, technological innovation and accountable governance,” he said.
He added that the enormous resources and opportunities available to Ondo State impose a collective responsibility on leaders and citizens alike to build a prosperous and inclusive society.
Under the banner of OWN ONDO 2028: Forward Thinking, Adeloye said the time had come for the state to move beyond limitations and embrace a new era of strategic development and shared prosperity.
