Ondo to Transform Araromi Coastline into World-Class Beach Resort

​ARAROMI, ONDO STATE – In a strategic move to position Ondo State as Nigeria’s premier coastal tourism destination, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has unveiled ambitious plans to develop a state-owned beach resort along the Araromi coastline.

​Speaking at the Araromi Seaside Carnival on Monday, the Governor called on private investors to partner with the state, aiming to attract between five and ten major stakeholders to transform the 72-kilometer shoreline—one of the longest in Africa—into a high-end leisure hub.

​A New Vision for the “Blue Economy”

​Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the initiative is a deliberate step to “change the narrative” of the state’s underdeveloped coastal assets. Despite its vast potential, the Araromi stretch has historically lacked the infrastructure to compete with neighboring tourism centers like Lagos.

​”The ocean has always been part of our civilization,” the Governor remarked, reflecting on the historical significance of the waterways. “From Araromi, you can connect with the world. We are intentional about this; the state government will lead, but we welcome investors to partner with us.”

​Infrastructure and Connectivity

​A critical catalyst for this development is the ongoing construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. The Governor noted that the highway’s proximity—estimated at just a five-minute drive from the beach corridor—will drastically reduce travel time and boost visitor turnout.

​”The strategic location, which is already accessible from Lagos within approximately 45 minutes by boat, will become a primary alternative for tourists seeking serenity outside the crowded Lagos axis,” Aiyedatiwa added.

​Key Highlights of the Project:

​1.Government-Led Development: The state has already finalized designs and measured the land for the resort.

​2.Timeline: Construction is slated to begin this year, with a target completion date in 2027.

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​3.Security Guarantee: The Governor assured investors of maximum safety, noting that the Ilaje local government area remains free of banditry and kidnapping.

​4.Facilities: Planned infrastructure includes modern chalets, reception halls, and a mobile kitchen system already being piloted by early private operators.

​Economic Impact

​Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Adesoji Afolabi, noted that the Easter carnival is part of a broader strategy to revive the sector and attract international interest. Local leaders, including the Chairmen of Ilaje and Ese-Odo LGAs, expressed optimism that the project would stimulate industrial growth and improve local livelihoods.

​Bayo Rojugbokan, Chairman of the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service (ODIRS), urged investors to act swiftly, predicting that the development of the coastline would trigger rapid and competitive appreciation of land value in the corridor.

​Note to Investors: Land has been designated and cleared for development. Interested parties are encouraged to engage with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for partnership frameworks.