Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has unveiled an ambitious plan to develop a state-owned beach resort along the Araromi coastline, as part of efforts to position Ondo State as a leading tourism destination and attract private investment.
Speaking at the Araromi Seaside Carnival in Ilaje Local Government Area on Monday, the governor said his administration is targeting between five and ten investors to partner with the state in transforming the coastline into a vibrant leisure and economic hub.
He described the Araromi stretch—spanning about 72 kilometres—as one of the longest coastlines in Africa, noting that it remains largely underutilised despite its vast tourism and economic potential.
According to him, the state government has commenced deliberate steps to showcase the coastal asset to a broader audience, with early signs of investor interest already emerging.
“We are intentional about this development. The government will take the lead, but we are opening the space for investors to come in and build a world-class beach resort,” Aiyedatiwa said.
The governor disclosed that preliminary work, including land measurement and resort design, has been completed, with construction expected to begin later this year and the facility projected for completion within a year.
He also noted that private sector participation has already begun, citing the presence of a private operator providing basic amenities such as shelters and mobile kitchen services to enhance visitor experience.
Highlighting the broader vision, Aiyedatiwa emphasised the cultural, historical and recreational significance of coastal environments, noting that beach destinations remain central to global tourism.
He assured residents and potential investors of adequate security in the area, stating that the Ilaje axis would rank among the safest locations in the country, with strategic monitoring of access routes.
The governor further linked the project’s viability to ongoing infrastructure development, particularly the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, which he said would improve accessibility and boost tourism traffic, given its close proximity to the beach corridor.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Adesoji Afolabi, said the seaside carnival—now in its second edition—forms part of efforts to revive the state’s tourism sector and position Araromi as a global destination.
He added that plans are underway to develop modern tourism infrastructure, including chalets and reception facilities, stressing that private sector collaboration would be key to achieving the vision.
Other government officials and stakeholders at the event commended the initiative, describing it as a strategic step toward unlocking economic opportunities, generating revenue and improving livelihoods in coastal communities.
They also highlighted the proximity of Araromi to Lagos and its expansive coastline as major advantages that could attract both local and international tourists.
The event drew participation from cabinet members, lawmakers, investors and tourists from across the country, reflecting growing interest in the state’s tourism potential.
