U.S. Endorses Ondo State as Prime Investment Destination, Highlights Security Collaboration

The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., recently met with Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, in a high-level engagement focused on enhancing security, exploring commercial opportunities for U.S. firms, and addressing key legislative issues impacting Nigerian states.

During the meeting, the Governor showcased Ondo State’s strategic economic projects designed to attract foreign investment, including a proposed deep sea port, petrochemical hub, and refinery situated within the state’s free trade zone. These projects, coupled with Ondo’s rich mineral resources and status as Nigeria’s leading cocoa producer, present immense opportunities for U.S. investors seeking to tap into Nigeria’s growing economy.

Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the deep sea port, once actualized, would provide crucial relief to the congested Lagos ports at Apapa and Tin Can, leveraging Ondo’s extensive coastline for increased international maritime trade. The Governor also highlighted recent progress, including the signing of Memoranda of Understanding with over five major local and foreign investors in just six months, signaling a robust investment climate.

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Ambassador Mills commended the state government’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business and enhancing security across Ondo. Notably, he revealed that Ondo State has been added to the list of Nigerian sub-national entities recommended to U.S. investors, reflecting the positive impression made by the state’s proactive governance and investment readiness.

Security was a vital topic during the discussions. The U.S. delegation praised the achievements of the Amotekun Corps in supplementing conventional security efforts in the state. Ondo’s recognition at the global level, highlighted by the United Nations’ designation of July 7 as World Amotekun Day, further underscores the state’s innovative approach to maintaining peace and security.

Governor Aiyedatiwa described the meeting as timely and fruitful, expressing optimism that it will lay a strong foundation for deeper trade, investment, and security cooperation between Ondo State and the United States.

This engagement marks a significant step forward in positioning Ondo State as a leading commercial and security partner on the African continent, heralding a new era of U.S.-Nigeria state-level collaboration.