Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Henry Owen | Stone Reporter News
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has called on British investors to take advantage of the state’s untapped natural and economic resources, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to expanding developmental partnerships with the United Kingdom.
Governor Aiyedatiwa made the appeal on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, during a courtesy visit by the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonny Baxter, and his delegation at the Government House in Akure.
The governor described Ondo as a “land of opportunity,” highlighting the state’s leadership in cocoa production—contributing about 40% of Nigeria’s total output—and its vast deposits of bitumen, gold, gas, and other minerals. He explained that these resources, coupled with fertile agricultural land and a vibrant population of 5.3 million, made Ondo an attractive destination for long-term investment.
According to him, Ondo’s 180-kilometre stretch of coastline—the longest in Nigeria—positions it as a key gateway for trade, and preparations are underway for the construction of a deep seaport to support maritime commerce and expand the state’s blue economy.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that Nigeria’s engagement with the UK had evolved from colonial dependency to a modern partnership driven by investment and innovation. He noted that his administration had created a one-stop investment office to guide new investors through documentation and operations, while also improving security to ensure a stable business climate.
He further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing economic reforms, noting that although the policies initially caused economic discomfort, they were beginning to yield positive results, boosting state revenue and investment confidence.
In response, Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter expressed admiration for Ondo’s economic prospects, noting that the UK was eager to deepen investment ties with the state. He revealed that British International Investment (BII) had already committed over $40 million to support cocoa rehabilitation projects through JohnVents in Ondo State, with additional funds being channelled to Nigerian banks to make loans more accessible for small and medium-sized businesses.
“Our goal is to make capital cheaper and more accessible so that local industries can thrive and expand,” Baxter said, adding that the UK government’s focus had shifted from donor aid to mutually beneficial investment partnerships.
The visit, which also explored areas of collaboration in infrastructure, agriculture, and renewable energy, was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Speaker Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, members of the State Executive Council, and heads of strategic ministries and agencies.
The meeting, according to Stone Reporter News, marks another key step in Ondo State’s ongoing efforts to attract international investment and diversify its economy beyond oil dependency.
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