Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has expanded the portfolio of Dr. Summy Smart Francis, adding Investment to his existing responsibilities, in what the administration describes as a strategic move to strengthen Ondo State’s economic transformation agenda.
The governor announced the decision through an executive order at the Ondo Investment Summit 2026, officially designating Dr. Francis as Special Adviser on Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Investment.
The summit, themed “The New Ondo: Forging the Pathway to Prosperity,” brought together policymakers, captains of industry, development partners and investors to examine emerging opportunities within the state. The event served as a platform to showcase Ondo’s economic potential, policy reforms and sector-specific investment prospects.
In his address, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the integration of entrepreneurship, innovation and investment portfolios is designed to streamline policy implementation, enhance investor confidence and accelerate private sector participation in the state’s development drive. He emphasized that aligning enterprise development with capital attraction would fast-track economic expansion.
Dr. Francis, who has been widely recognised for championing entrepreneurship-led initiatives, is now expected to coordinate strategic investment efforts alongside startup development and innovation policies. The expanded mandate positions his office as a central hub for investment promotion, enterprise growth and stakeholder engagement.
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According to the governor, the consolidation will create a more cohesive framework to support startups, scale small and medium enterprises, and attract institutional investors into priority sectors including agriculture, technology, infrastructure, energy and manufacturing.
The administration also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the ease of doing business in the state, strengthen infrastructure and promote innovation-driven growth. Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his commitment to building a business-friendly environment anchored on transparency, efficiency and strategic partnerships.
He noted that the state’s economic blueprint is structured to unlock productivity, generate employment opportunities and drive inclusive prosperity for residents.
