Ogun State Officially Joins Nigeria's Oil-Producing States
In a landmark development for Nigeria's energy sector, Ogun State has officially become an oil-producing state as the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) commenced drilling operations at the Eba oil well. This historic move follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's approval, which accelerated production activities and marks a significant shift in Nigeria's oil production landscape.
Presidential Approval Accelerates Drilling Operations
The green light from President Tinubu paved the way for intensified activities at the Eba site, with an inspection team comprising officials from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and national security agencies assessing operational readiness and regulatory compliance. Leading the delegation was Hussein Aliyu, Project Coordinator for NNPCL's Enserv team, alongside engineers and technical experts tasked with evaluating infrastructure, safety standards, and drilling requirements.
Their mission was clear: confirm the well's preparedness for commercial production and ensure every regulatory and technical requirement was met before drilling commenced. Geological assessments had previously confirmed hydrocarbon deposits within the Ogun Waterside axis, prompting preliminary surveys and deeper technical engagements by NNPCL.
Governor Abiodun Hails Watershed Moment for Ogun State
Governor Dapo Abiodun described the development as a watershed moment for Ogun State, noting that the commencement of drilling at Eba is expected to unlock fresh economic opportunities, create jobs, and attract stronger federal presence to coastal communities that have long yearned for industrial growth. To remove any lingering doubts, the Ogun State Government independently verified the coordinates of the oil well, affirming that the discovery lies firmly within its territorial boundaries.
Enhanced Security and Strategic Importance
Security has been central to the project's stability, with naval personnel guarding the facility for more than 18 months in collaboration with state authorities to safeguard equipment and prevent disruptions. This sustained security presence reflects the high strategic value attached to the site, which forms part of Nigeria's broader strategy to diversify production beyond the Niger Delta.
For decades, states like Delta and Rivers have dominated Nigeria's oil map. Ogun's entry signals a deliberate shift aimed at boosting national output while promoting regional balance in energy development. Stakeholders indicate that the next phase will focus on strict regulatory compliance, environmental safeguards, and active engagement with host communities to ensure a smooth take-off.
Broader Implications for Nigeria's Energy Sector
For Ogun residents, this development represents more than crude oil—it promises jobs, infrastructure, and renewed economic momentum. For Nigeria, it marks another step toward strengthening energy security and widening the nation's oil-producing base. This comes alongside another significant discovery: the Awodi-07 appraisal and exploration well in the shallow offshore western Niger Delta, discovered by NNPCL and Chevron Nigeria Limited.
The Awodi-07 well is expected to support plans by the NNPC Ltd/Chevron Joint Venture to raise crude oil production to approximately 146,000 barrels per day, a move seen as critical to boosting government revenue and strengthening national energy security. NNPCL confirmed this development in a statement by Chief Corporate Communications Officer Andy Odeh, congratulating Chevron as the operator of the joint venture on the successful completion of drilling activities.
As Nigeria continues to expand its oil production capabilities, the Eba oil well project represents both immediate economic potential for Ogun State and long-term strategic value for national energy diversification efforts.
