Ondo State Government has said that the development of a Deep Seaport, the proposed Olokola Free Trade Zone (FTZ), and a 500,000-barrel-per-day modular refinery will transform the state into an industrial hub and redefine its economic future.

These projects, according to it, aimed at shifting the state from a civil-service-driven economy to an industrial one.

Ondo State Commissioner for Information, Idowu Ajanaju, who stated this in his post-anniversary statement as chairman of the media committee of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the state’s creation, said that the state government, under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is focused on setting the pace for transforming the state from a civil-service-dominated state into an industrialised one through monumental projects.

According to him, the move will undoubtedly boost the state’s economy, adding that the just-concluded 50th anniversary celebrations of the state’s creation were an impactful and historic one.

He emphasised that the all-inclusive golden jubilee anniversary was made possible with the “charismatic, people-centred and stern leadership qualities of,” which he said, were optimally demonstrated all through the celebration.

The commissioner also said that the respect and recognition accorded to past leaders of the state, both living and deceased, through the conferment of lifetime achievement awards, underscored the governor’s “impeccable character as a man of integrity.

He, therefore, described the anniversary as impactful and historic in the lives of many families, particularly the youths who participated in the essay competitions and won plots of land and cash prizes, which he noted would open a new and transformative chapter in their lives.

Ajanaku, while thanking God for a hitch-free celebration, also appreciated the governor for the confidence reposed in the anniversary planning committee and for his support.