Ondo State Government have said that the “Develop Ondo 2.0 Investment Summit,” would serve as a catalyst for economic transformation, a beacon of hope for progress, a spur to the spirit of innovation that defines the state and prosperity of the people.
The Acting Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa stated this today while declaring open the Develop Ondo Investment summit holding in Akure, the state capital.
Aiyedatiwa said, “As we gather here, we embark on a collective journey, fuelled by the spirit of enterprise and progress, to unlock the vast investment potential that lies within our beautiful Sunshine State.
“Allow me to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for their unwavering commitment and dedication invested in organising this summit. I also extend my gratitude to our esteemed international partners, the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), for their invaluable support and collaboration, which elevate the magnitude of this event to a global level.
“We are also proud to have Brevity Anderson as our Trade Advisory Consultancy and Implementing Partner and Stears Business as our data partner for Develop Ondo, underlining our emphasis on data-driven decision-making and strategic execution.”
The Acting Governor said the “Develop Ondo 2.0 Investment Summit” is a testament a collective vision and unwavering commitment to fostering economic growth, creating jobs, and improving the lives of the people of Ondo State.
“It is the culmination of extensive planning and preparation. Its objectives are clear: to showcase Ondo State’s investment potential, promote it as a premier investment destination, and foster a conducive business climate that attracts both local and international investors.”
He said the summit serves as a platform to connect stakeholders from diverse sectors, facilitating constructive dialogue, knowledge sharing, and the forging of strategic partnerships that would be the catalyst for accelerated development in our State.
The Governor noted that the “Develop Ondo 2.0” theme reflects the government unwavering commitment to growth and progress, with the number “2.0” symbolising our drive for continuous improvement and innovation.
He added that the state’s investment potential is boundless, spanning various sectors that offer enticing opportunities for growth and prosperity.
He, however, said to drive investments in these key sectors, the “Develop Ondo 2.0 Investment Summit” aims to attract $2 billion in investments to the state, create 70,000 new jobs, and engage with 100 donor partners and 1,500 investors.
“These targets demonstrate our ambitious vision for a vibrant and thriving economy that uplifts our people and enriches their lives.”
In his address, the Director General, Performance and Project Implementation Monitoring Unit (PPIMU), Babajide Akeredolu noted that the unit has at various times spearheaded the development of critical policy documents, stressing that PPIMU played a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth execution of the summit.
“The Performance and Project Implementation Monitoring Unit (PPIMU) has been a driving force behind promoting the one administration principle in Ondo State.
“Through effective facilitation of collaboration amongst MDAs, the private sector and donor partners like EU and UNDP, PPIMU has exemplified the importance of unity and shared responsibility in achieving government’s objectives.
“Additionally, PPIMU spearheaded the development of critical policy documents, including the state Industrial Policy and Investment Guide which laid the groundwork for guiding investment decisions and policy reforms in Ondo State.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engineer Razaq Obe who also doubles as the Chairman, Develop Ondo 2.0 Organizing Committee noted that the summit will serve as an eye opener to the various investment opportunities in Ondo State.
While appreciating the sponsors of the summit, Obe stressed that the time is ripe for transformative investment in the state, as he called on participants under the various categories to make the summit worthwhile.
In her goodwill message, the Deputy Resident Representative, United Nations Development Program, MS. Fati Attahiru commended the Ondo State government for its various investments especially in infrastructural development.
She however noted that the state still has a long way to go way and urged the government to take advantage of this summit to better the lot of the state.
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