Ondo State government, yesterday, reiterated efforts to attract investors through its Blue Economy and Energy initiative, which emphasises abundant investment potential available across the three senatorial districts of the state.
In a bid to showcase these opportunities, the government has planned to organise an investment summit between July 24 and 26, 2023, scheduled to hold at Dome International Culture and Event Centre, Akure, the state capital. The event will be declared open by President Bola Tinubu.
The state’s Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources and chairman of the summit’s planning committee, Rasaq Obe, who spoke at a media briefing to herald the summit, said the investment conference tagged, Develop Ondo 2.0, with the theme “Developing Possibilities,” would bring together local and foreign investors and entrepreneurs to explore the untapped potential of the state.
According to the commissioner, the Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu-led administration is keen on leveraging these advantages to accelerate economic growth and attract investments across all sectors, such as agriculture, manufacturing, technology, tourism, and infrastructure development.
He said: “This summit marks a turning point for Ondo State, as we present an array of investment opportunities across various sectors, from agriculture to manufacturing, tourism to technology and renewable energy to infrastructural development.
“Ondo State offers a diverse range of sectors where investors can harness untapped potential and contribute to the growth of our economy.
“Further, Ondo State is blessed with abundant natural resources, including vast arable land for agriculture, solid minerals, and a significant coastline for maritime activities and tourism.
“We encourage potential investors to explore these sectors, which hold immense opportunities for sustainable development, employment generation, and wealth creation.”
“To support these investment efforts, the Akeredolu government of Ondo State is committed to providing an enabling business environment. Our goal is to establish a seamless process for business registration, licensing and approvals, reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks and encouraging investment inflows.
“In addition, the state government has invested significantly in critical infrastructure projects. We recognise the vital role that infrastructure plays in facilitating business activities and attracting investments. Ondo State has embarked on ambitious projects to improve road networks, power supply, water resources, and digital connectivity.”
Obe further stressed that “I want to urge the business community, both local and international, to work together with us to unlock the vast potential of Ondo State and harness its resources for the benefit of our people and hope for our posterity.
“There is no doubt that with our target of fostering a business-friendly environment, investing in critical infrastructure, and nurturing human capital, we can indeed attract sustainable investments that will drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for every citizen of Ondo State.”
On her part, the Commissioner for Information, Ademola-Olateju, said the investment summit would serve as a catalyst for sustainable economic development, job creation, and overall improvement in the quality of life for the residents of the state.
She said the summit would foster partnership, attract capital, and stimulate innovation, which will no doubt lead to increased investment inflows and economic diversification.
According to her, the state is positioning itself as an attractive investment destination, showcasing its rich resources, business-friendly policies, and commitment to growth.
