Ondo targets industrial growth, higher IGR — Commissioner

The Ondo State Government says it is intensifying efforts to expand its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) base in line with Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s vision of transforming the state into an industrial hub.

Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, disclosed this during an interactive session with political journalists in Lagos. He revealed that the state generated ₦28.1 billion in the first quarter of 2025, describing it as proof that the government’s economic reforms are delivering results.

According to him, the administration has signed an MoU with a refinery capable of producing 500,000 barrels of oil daily, while BUA Cement is set to establish operations in Okeluse to harness the state’s vast limestone deposits. He said such partnerships would boost industrialisation, create jobs, and enhance revenue inflow.

Ajanaku explained that Governor Aiyedatiwa is pursuing development through the OUR EASE Agenda, a seven-point blueprint covering security, infrastructure, energy, healthcare, technology, industrialisation, tourism, education, and human capital development.

“Dr. Aiyedatiwa is poised to change the narrative of Ondo as a civil service state and reposition it as a leading industrial hub. His business background gives him the leverage to attract investors and grow the economy,” Ajanaku stated.

On infrastructure, he highlighted projects across the three senatorial districts, including the Irese overhead bridge in Akure, the dualisation of Akungba–Ikare road, and the Ilaje–Ibeju Lekki coastal road in partnership with the NDDC. He added that 60km of Araromi beach roads are also under construction, while the World Bank-assisted RAMP project, backed by the state’s ₦4 billion counterpart funding, is opening rural communities for agriculture and commerce.

On security, he noted that the Amotekun Corps, recently strengthened with 50 operational vehicles, has been recognised by the United Nations as a model for community policing.

Ajanaku dismissed rumours of a rift between Governor Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Olayide Adelami, insisting they remain united in delivering dividends of democracy.

He added that Ondo’s 50th anniversary in February 2026 will feature landmark projects to be commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reflecting the governor’s determination to leave lasting legacies in industrialisation, infrastructure, and revenue growth.