By Kanu Samuel
A prominent stakeholder of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Otunba Valentine Olaleye, has welcomed the proposed establishment of a mega industrial and free trade zone by the Dangote Group at Olokola, describing it as a landmark development capable of transforming the state’s economic fortunes.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Olaleye said the proposed investment represents a significant vote of confidence in Ondo State and reflects growing investor trust in the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
He commended the governor for what he described as purposeful leadership, economic foresight and an investment-friendly approach that has helped attract the interest of one of Africa’s largest business conglomerates.
According to him, the proposed project is more than a routine business venture, noting that it signals renewed confidence in the state’s people, resources and long-term economic prospects.
Olaleye said Olokola has long been recognised as one of the South-West’s most strategic economic corridors because of its coastal location, access to energy resources and vast development potential.
“The renewed interest of the Dangote Group represents not just investment interest but the revival of hope, the return of confidence and the awakening of a long-awaited economic vision,” he said.
He added that the proposed industrial and free trade zone has the potential to become a major economic engine for the state, creating opportunities across manufacturing, logistics, construction, energy, agriculture, transportation, hospitality and other sectors.
The APC stakeholder said the project could generate both direct and indirect employment, expand opportunities for young people, strengthen local businesses and improve the state’s revenue base.
He also highlighted the broader economic benefits that often accompany large-scale industrial developments, including increased commercial activity, expanded markets for local producers and improved prospects for artisans, transport operators and small business owners.
Olaleye expressed optimism about the scale of the proposed investment and the supporting infrastructure expected to accompany it, including power, gas, water supply and modern logistics facilities.
He said such infrastructure would be critical to achieving sustainable industrial growth and maintaining Ondo State’s competitiveness as an investment destination.
Calling for broad-based support, Olaleye urged traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups and other stakeholders to cooperate with efforts aimed at bringing the project to fruition.
He stressed that developments of such magnitude require unity and collective commitment to ensure that the benefits translate into meaningful opportunities for local communities.
“As this vision progresses towards reality, I am confident that the Olokola industrial and free trade zone will become one of the defining economic legacies of this era,” he said.
Olaleye further congratulated Governor Aiyedatiwa on what he described as a major achievement, saying the administration’s focus on investment-driven governance, infrastructure development and economic renewal is positioning Ondo State for greater growth and prosperity.
He concluded by describing Olokola as a symbol of the state’s economic rebirth and a gateway to future opportunities
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