Ogun State is on the cusp of realizing its long-awaited status as an oil-producing state, following President Bola Tinubu’s approval for commercial oil drilling to commence at Eba, Ogun Waterside. This development was disclosed by Governor Dapo Abiodun during a courtesy visit from the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha.
The governor revealed that President Tinubu has also given the green light for the immediate takeoff of the Olokola Deep Seaport project, located in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. This multibillion-dollar port development has been in the works for years and is expected to significantly decongest the Lagos ports. According to Governor Abiodun, both projects are of special interest to the President, who has expressed his desire to see them become a reality.
The commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island is expected to promote economic empowerment for residents of the coastal communities, while the Olokola Deep Seaport will provide an alternative logistics corridor and help reduce congestion at the Lagos ports. The seaport, which will be known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, is expected to be far advanced by next year, with President Tinubu directing that construction should be expedited.
The Nigerian Navy has established a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, which will help prevent infiltration from neighboring Benin Republic and discourage attempts to undermine Nigeria’s territorial integrity. Governor Abiodun commended the naval presence, noting that it will contribute to the state’s security architecture and sustain the relative peace currently enjoyed in Ogun State.
The governor also disclosed that his administration is working to provide basic amenities for residents of the island, in line with efforts to improve living conditions and support emerging economic activities. Rear Admiral Mustapha described Ogun State as critical and strategic to Nigeria’s national security, emphasizing the need for synergy between the Nigerian Navy and the state government to safeguard the country’s border with Benin Republic.
The approval of these projects marks a significant breakthrough for Ogun State, which is expected to experience enhanced economic growth and development in the coming years. With the commencement of commercial oil drilling and the construction of the Olokola Deep Seaport, the state is poised to become a major player in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, while also providing a boost to the country’s economy.
