Ondo State, known as "Ìpínlẹ̀ Oǹdó" in Yoruba, is situated in the southwestern region of Nigeria. It was established on February 3, 1976, following its separation from the former Western State. Ondo State shares its borders with Ekiti State to the north, Kogi State to the northeast, Edo State to the east, Delta State to the southeast, Ogun State to the southwest, Osun State to the northwest, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. The capital of the state is Akure, which was also the former capital of the ancient Akure Kingdom. The state encompasses mangrove-swamp forests near the Bights of Benin.

Often referred to as the "Sunshine State," Ondo State ranks as the 19th most populous state in Nigeria and is the 25th-largest state in terms of landmass. The population is predominantly Yoruba, and the Yoruba language is widely spoken. The state's economy is primarily driven by the petroleum industry, with additional contributions from cocoa production, asphalt mining, and activities related to its extensive coastline. Ondo State is known for the Idanre inselberg hills, which host the highest geographical point in the western half of Nigeria, reaching an elevation of over 1,000 meters.