Joyce Mmereole Okoli
Hon. Olumekun Olubunmi, President of the Barge Operators Association of Nigeria (BOAN) and the Association of West African Exporters and Maritime Professionals (AWAEMAP), has congratulated Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa on his victory in the recently concluded Ondo State gubernatorial election.
In a statement, Hon. Olubunmi praised Governor Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to public service and encouraged him to deliver a transformative tenure. “The people of Ondo State have entrusted you with their future. I urge you to lead with a vision that prioritizes their welfare and sets new benchmarks for governance,” he remarked.
A prominent advocate for Nigeria’s Blue Economy, Hon. Olubunmi called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to leverage Ondo State’s maritime potential to stimulate economic growth and create sustainable livelihoods. Highlighting the untapped opportunities in inland waterways, tourism, fisheries, and maritime trade, he said, *“Ọba Ọmí ju Ọba Òkè,”* emphasizing that water-based resources surpass those on land in terms of economic potential.
Hon. Olubunmi reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with the Ondo State Government in exploring the Blue Economy. He also stressed the importance of policy frameworks that could position Ondo State as a leading hub for maritime activities in Nigeria and West Africa.
He wished the governor a successful tenure and pledged his unwavering support for initiatives aimed at advancing the prosperity of Ondo State and the nation.