Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Friday hosted his Bauchi counterpart, Senator Bala Mohammed, in Akure to strengthen collaboration between the two states, particularly in the areas of agriculture and industrial development.
The high-level meeting has already yielded a major investment promise—plans are underway for a $2.6 billion project to establish a petrochemical facility, a fertilizer plant, and a harmonial production plant in Ondo State within the next 12 months.
The investment, which is expected to create thousands of jobs and boost the state’s industrial base, follows deliberations between the Ondo State Government and Dr. Abbas Waziri, Executive Director of Residents Group Cement. Dr. Waziri accompanied Governor Mohammed on the visit.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed appreciation to his Bauchi counterpart for helping to facilitate the deal, describing it as a significant step in his administration's efforts to grow the local economy and reduce youth unemployment.
“I am sincerely grateful to Governor Bala Mohammed for his support and for visiting us in person,” Aiyedatiwa said. “I’ve followed your strides in Bauchi, especially your partnerships with local and international investors. We are adopting a similar approach here.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa also spoke about progress on the Ondo Deep Seaport project, which he said has the potential to transform the state's economic fortunes. According to him, the seaport would take advantage of the state’s long and deep coastline and could become the first modern vessel-ready port in the country.
Commenting on the planned petrochemical and cement projects, he said: “Our infrastructure drive is on course. I recently flagged off the dualization of the Igbokoda–Okitipupa road, and the next phase will extend to Ore. These roads will be ready before construction of the plant is completed.”
He added that the project will be sited in a designated free trade zone, making the environment even more attractive to investors.
Governor Aiyedatiwa assured the investment team of a peaceful and secure atmosphere to conduct their operations, emphasizing his administration's commitment to creating a business-friendly climate.
On his part, Governor Bala Mohammed commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his economic initiatives, especially in diversifying state revenue streams beyond federal allocations.
“What you’re doing here in Ondo is very similar to our efforts in Bauchi—empowering people, expanding economic opportunities, and building sustainable development,” Mohammed said.
He revealed that Residents Group Cement had already completed a $1.5 billion cement plant in Bauchi and was now set to replicate a similar investment model in Ondo.
Dr. Abbas Waziri, the investor, confirmed the group’s readiness to invest in fertilizer, harmonial, and petrochemical plants in the state, stating that operations would commence within 12 months.
“We’re committing $2.6 billion to this venture in Ondo State, and we’re confident in the cooperation between both state governments,” Waziri said.
The meeting was attended by top Ondo State officials including Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, and ONDIPA Administrative Secretary Barr. Emmanuel Omomowo.
