Ogun State is poised to join the elite league of oil-producing states in Nigeria following the formal approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the commencement of commercial oil drilling at Eba, Ogun Waterside area.
Governor Dapo Abiodun confirmed the historic development on Thursday in Abeokuta, declaring that the state’s decades-long aspiration to contribute to the nation’s hydrocarbon output is finally set to materialize.
He made the disclosure while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan.
In a dual economic boost for the state, the Governor also revealed that President Tinubu has authorized the immediate take-off of the long-stalled Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.
Now rebranded as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, the multibillion-dollar project is expected to significantly decongest the Lagos ports.
“Let me share with you that Mr. President has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling operations,” Governor Abiodun stated. “Our proposed Olokola Port, which has been on the drawing board for several years, is now back on the table. In the last two weeks alone, we have held several meetings, and Mr. President has clearly expressed his desire to see the port become a reality.”
Governor Abiodun emphasized that the President has directed that construction should reach an advanced stage between now and next year, leveraging the coastal road as an alternative logistics corridor.
He noted that these projects would drive significant economic empowerment and promote inclusion for residents of the coastal communities who have long awaited integration into the national economic framework.
Addressing the security implications of these expansions, the Governor commended the Nigerian Navy for establishing a presence in the zone.
He noted that the naval outpost at Tongeji Island is crucial for preventing infiltration from the neighbouring Republic of Benin and securing Nigeria’s territorial integrity as economic activities intensify.
Speaking earlier, Rear Admiral Mustapha corroborated the strategic importance of the location, disclosing that the naval outpost at Tongeji Island would be upgraded to a full Forward Operations Base.
He cited the area’s significant oil potential as the primary driver for the upgrade, adding that his command is committed to safeguarding the state’s borders and preventing criminal elements from gaining a foothold in the emerging economic zone.