Valentine Olaleye, a stakeholder in the All Progressives Congress (APC), has praised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his leadership and economic vision following the announcement of a major industrial free trade zone by the Dangote Group in Olokola, Ondo State. Olaleye described the development as a historic milestone that signals the state's resurgence as a key industrial hub in Nigeria.
A Vote of Confidence in Ondo State
According to Olaleye, who is also a businessman and investor, the project represents a clear vote of confidence in Ondo State, its people, and its resources. He noted that the renewed interest from the Dangote Group goes beyond mere investment; it signifies the revival of hope and the return of a long-awaited economic vision for the state.
Details of the Project
The proposed industrial and free trade zone was unveiled during a visit by Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, to Governor Aiyedatiwa in Akure on Monday. The project aims to transform the Olokola corridor into one of the country's largest industrial hubs, featuring dedicated power generation, water supply, gas infrastructure, and modern logistics facilities.
Olaleye's Commendation
Olaleye commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his purposeful leadership and investment-friendly policies that brought this opportunity to fruition. He stated, “This development is not just another business announcement. It is a clear vote of confidence in Ondo State, its people, its resources and the future being deliberately shaped under the present administration.”
He added that Aiyedatiwa deserves recognition for understanding that progress is measured by the quality of opportunities created for the people. By strengthening investor confidence and promoting a climate where serious businesses can thrive, the administration is laying a foundation for sustainable development, wider employment, and long-term prosperity.
Economic Impact
Olaleye highlighted the potential of the industrial and free trade zone to become a major economic engine for Ondo State. It is expected to open doors for manufacturing, logistics, construction, energy, trade, agriculture, transportation, and hospitality. This will create direct and indirect jobs, expand opportunities for young people, and improve revenue prospects.
He emphasized that such development can transform communities, as markets become more active, transporters find new opportunities, artisans gain work, farmers access better value chains, and families experience the dignity of productivity and stable income.
Infrastructure and Leadership
Olaleye expressed encouragement by the scale of the project and the supporting infrastructure, including power, gas, water supply, and modern logistics facilities. He noted that these are essential pillars for serious industrial transformation and that no state can achieve sustainable economic growth without the right infrastructure, partnerships, and leadership. He commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for positioning Ondo State for such growth.
Call for Unity
Olaleye urged traditional institutions, community leaders, youths, stakeholders, and all patriotic citizens of Ondo State to support the initiative. He emphasized that a development of this magnitude requires unity, cooperation, and collective goodwill. “We must create the atmosphere that allows the project to succeed while ensuring that its benefits translate into real opportunities for our people,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the Olokola industrial and free trade zone will become one of the defining economic legacies of this era, symbolizing what is possible when leadership is focused, investors are confident, and the people are united behind a shared vision of progress. “Olokola is more than a location on the map. It is becoming a symbol of Ondo State's economic rebirth, a gateway to opportunity and a testimony that with the right leadership, our state can rise to greater heights,” Olaleye concluded.
