Ogun Set to Become Oil-Producing State as Tinubu Approves Drilling, Revives Olokola Seaport
Ogun State is set to finally attain oil-producing status following President Bola Tinubu’s approval for the start of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island (Eba), in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.
Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, and other senior naval officers during a courtesy visit in Abeokuta.
Abiodun also announced that Tinubu has approved the immediate take-off of the long-delayed Olokola Deep Seaport project, describing it as a major breakthrough after years of delays.
According to the governor, the seaport will help decongest Lagos ports, while the oil drilling initiative is expected to boost economic inclusion and empower coastal communities in Ogun State. He revealed that the new port will be developed as the Blue Marine Economic Zone.
The governor praised the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, saying it will strengthen security around the area and prevent infiltration from neighbouring Benin Republic.
Rear Admiral Mustapha, in his remarks, said Ogun State remains vital to national security and confirmed that the naval outpost would be upgraded due to the area’s oil potential, as the Navy works closely with the state to secure borders and prevent criminal activities.
