President Bola Tinubu has given the green light for commercial oil drilling to commence at Tongeji Island in Ogun State’s Ipokia Local Government Area. This development was announced by Governor Dapo Abiodun during a courtesy visit from the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, at the governor’s office in Abeokuta.
In addition to the oil drilling project, President Tinubu has also approved the immediate take-off of the Olokola Deep Seaport project, located in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. The governor described this decision as a significant breakthrough, following years of anticipation surrounding the multibillion-dollar port project. The Olokola Deep Seaport is expected to decongest the Lagos ports, while commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island will promote economic empowerment for residents of coastal communities.
Governor Abiodun revealed that both projects are of special interest to President Tinubu, who has directed that construction of the Olokola port should be advanced significantly between now and next year. The new seaport will be known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, reflecting its strategic coastal location and vast economic potential. The project is expected to provide an alternative logistics corridor, utilizing the coastal road to reduce congestion at the Lagos ports.
The governor commended the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, which will help prevent infiltration from the neighboring Republic of Benin and protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity. He also announced plans to provide basic amenities for residents of the island, aiming to improve living conditions and support emerging economic activities.
The Nigerian Navy’s presence in Ogun State is seen as crucial to the state’s security architecture, with collaboration among security agencies contributing to the relative peace currently enjoyed in the state. Governor Abiodun expressed confidence that the state would experience enhanced security and progress under the leadership of Rear Admiral Mustapha, describing him as a seasoned and accomplished officer.
The approval of these projects marks a significant milestone in the development of Ogun State’s economy, with the potential to create new opportunities for economic growth and empowerment. As the projects move forward, the state government and the Nigerian Navy are expected to work closely together to ensure their successful implementation and to maintain the security of the region.
