By Asaye Bankole
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, is expected to unveil the proposed University of Maritime Transport and Logistics in Ugbonla, Ilaje Local Government Area, in February 2027.
The proposed university will emerge from the planned upgrade of the existing School of Maritime Transport and Logistics to university status.
The Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Biyi Poroye, disclosed this during an on-the-spot assessment of facilities at the institution on Tuesday.
Poroye, who was accompanied by the Vice-Chancellor of the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, Professor Temi Ologunorisa, said the commission was committed to developing a modern maritime institution capable of positioning Ondo State as a major centre for maritime education, transportation and logistics.
He said stakeholders and residents of OSOPADEC’s mandate areas had appealed to Aiyedatiwa to approve the institution’s elevation to university status.
Poroye expressed optimism that the proposed upgrade would boost educational opportunities and stimulate socio-economic development in the oil-producing communities.
He said the commission was prioritising the completion of male and female hostel facilities with a combined capacity of 200 beds to provide students with adequate accommodation.
The institution is also expected to offer specialised programmes in maritime security and safety, maritime economics, finance and blue economy, transport and logistics management, climate change and ocean studies, maritime environmental management, shipping and maritime business, as well as port management and operations.
Poroye further disclosed that plans were underway to construct a semi-stadium to promote sports, recreation and talent development among students.
He said the Omuro International Market in Ugbonla was expected to boost commercial activities, create employment opportunities and support small businesses in the host communities and neighbouring areas.
On security, the OSOPADEC chairman revealed plans to establish a Nigerian Navy operating base close to the proposed university to strengthen security and provide a safer environment for students, staff, residents and investors.
He added that a medical centre had been constructed to serve the institution and surrounding communities.
The facility is expected to be managed by OSOPADEC in collaboration with the Ugboland Host Communities Development Trust.
According to Poroye, the proposed university and supporting infrastructure form part of a broader development strategy aimed at integrating education, healthcare, commerce and security to improve the living conditions of residents.
He commended Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to developing OSOPADEC’s mandate areas and pledged the commission’s continued support for projects aimed at delivering lasting benefits to the People.
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