President Tinubu Greenlights Historic Oil Drilling and Seaport Projects in Ogun State
Ogun State is poised to achieve a significant economic milestone as President Bola Tinubu has officially approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling operations at Tongeji Island, located within the Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. This landmark decision was announced by Governor Dapo Abiodun during a courtesy visit from senior naval officers at his office in Abeokuta.
Dual Approvals for Economic Transformation
Governor Abiodun revealed that President Tinubu has also given the green light for the immediate take-off of the long-delayed Olokola Deep Seaport project, which is situated in the same coastal region. The governor described these approvals as a major breakthrough after years of anticipation surrounding these multibillion-dollar developments.
"Let me share with you that Mr President has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling operations at Tongeji Island, and going forward, you will begin to see a lot of activities there," Governor Abiodun stated during the meeting.
Strategic Importance of the Olokola Deep Seaport
The governor emphasized that both projects hold special interest for President Tinubu. The Olokola Deep Seaport, now revived after years on the drawing board, is expected to significantly decongest Lagos ports while creating new economic opportunities. Governor Abiodun expressed gratitude to the president for personally championing this initiative.
"Our proposed Olokola Port, which has been on the drawing board for several years, is now back on the table. I want to sincerely thank Mr President because this is solely his initiative," the governor explained.
He further disclosed that President Tinubu has directed that construction work on the port should see substantial progress between now and next year. The project, which will be known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, presents a strong opportunity to alleviate congestion at Lagos ports, especially with the coastal road providing an alternative logistics corridor.
Security and Community Development Initiatives
Governor Abiodun commended the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, noting that this strategic move will help prevent infiltration from neighbouring Benin Republic and safeguard Nigeria's territorial integrity. The naval outpost is being upgraded due to the area's emerging oil potential.
The governor also revealed that his administration is working to provide basic amenities for residents of Tongeji Island to improve living conditions and support the emerging economic activities that will accompany the oil drilling operations.
Enhanced Security Collaboration
During the meeting, Governor Abiodun praised the Nigerian Navy for its contribution to Ogun State's security landscape, noting that collaboration among security agencies has helped maintain the relative peace enjoyed in the state. He described Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, the Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, as a seasoned officer whose leadership would enhance security in Ogun State.
"We are happy that someone with your antecedents, background, training, and experience is occupying this position at this time. You are a round peg in a round hole," the governor told the naval commander.
Rear Admiral Mustapha, in his remarks, described Ogun State as critical to Nigeria's national security. He explained that his visit aimed to strengthen cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and the Ogun State Government, with part of his mandate focusing on securing Nigeria's border with the Republic of Benin and preventing criminal activities in the state.
The approval of both commercial oil drilling and the Olokola Deep Seaport represents a transformative moment for Ogun State's economic development, potentially positioning it as both an oil-producing state and a major maritime hub in Nigeria's southwestern region.
