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PHYSICAL PLANNING MINISTRY HAILS AIYEDATIWA’S PLAN TO TRANSFORM ARAROMI-SEASIDE INTO ECONOMIC HUB
The Ondo State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development has lauded Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s strategic vision to transform the beachfront community of Araromi into a bustling economic hub that will unlock the untapped economic potential of the state’s coastal resources.
According to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Chief Oluwagbenga Akingbasote who spoke with WEEKEND HOPE, the strategic intervention is aimed at transforming the state into a bustling commercial and tourism powerhouse in the country.
Chief Akingbasote, who spoke on behalf of the Commissioner for the Ministry, Honourable Sunday Olajide, commended the state government for taking a step that will usher in a wave of mega-projects and a massive boost to local tourism.Government
He said, “Araromi seaside is a cultural and tourism site. It is a blessing to Ondo State, which has been lying fallow over the years. We are not getting as many activities there as it deserves. In Lagos, there are lots of activities on its beaches that are generating revenue for the state government.
“So, the Ondo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, is reawakening our consciousness toward bringing up economic and tourism activities in that area.”
He added that the Araromi seaside will be transformed into a thriving industrial and tourism hub, with plans underway to establish major projects such as a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facility, a seaport, a proposed refinery and fertilizer factories in the area.
Alongside this sweeping industrial expansion, the area’s breathtaking natural beauty is also expected to drive a major boom in the state’s tourism sector.
“A lot of things are going to be springing up in that Araromi seaside area. We can talk about LNG, a seaport, a proposed refinery, fertilizer factories and a boost in tourism activities because it is a sight to behold.”Since Ondo State has the longest coastline in Nigeria, the coastal road coming from Lagos will pass through that axis and a lot of people will not need to pass through Sagamu and Ijebu Ode to get to Lagos. With that area, we are going to have the shortest distance when traveling to Lagos.”
He added that Governor Aiyedatiwa is emphasising strict regulatory planning to ensure maximum economic yield and prevent chaotic, unregulated expansion in the zone.
“With all these things springing up there, we require planning in order not to have chaotic development. When companies start coming for land and establishing their presence, it will become a mess if not regulated. That is where our ministry comes in to plan the development of that area for proper usage.
“The State Executive Council, under the chairmanship of Mr. Governor, has approved the development plan for that axis and the activities are going to start anytime from now. By the time we come out with the master plan for that area, people will know where to go for whatever activity they want to carry out.”
Chief Akingbasote added that the state government is currently working on drafting new development plans for Akure and other cities in the state.
“Part of what is also essential for planning purposes is a good development plan for cities. The last development plan for Akure was done in 1980. Mr. Governor has promised to create a new master plan for Akure and other cities. These are some of the things that should be in place for a well-planned state.”
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