Ogun State’s long-held dream of becoming an oil-producing state is set to become a reality following the approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the commencement of commercial oil drilling in the state. The President has also approved the immediate take-off of the Olokola Deep Seaport project, ending years of delay and uncertainty around the multibillion-dollar development.
Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this on Thursday while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, and other senior naval officers during a courtesy visit to his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
According to the governor, President Tinubu has given approval for commercial oil drilling to begin at Eba and Tongeji Island in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. He described the decision as a major breakthrough that would bring economic growth, jobs, and development to the coastal communities of the state.
Governor Abiodun said the approval marks a turning point for Ogun State, which has for many years sought recognition as an oil-producing state despite having oil deposits within its coastal axis.
“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,” the governor said.
He explained that oil exploration in Ogun Waterside would promote inclusion and economic empowerment for residents of the area, many of whom depend mainly on fishing and small trading for survival.
For decades, communities in Ogun Waterside have complained of neglect despite their strategic location and natural resources. The commencement of oil drilling is expected to open up the area, improve infrastructure, and create employment opportunities for youths.
In addition to oil drilling, Governor Abiodun announced that President Tinubu has approved the immediate take-off of the Olokola Deep Seaport project, which is also located in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.
The Olokola Deep Seaport project, first conceived over 20 years ago, has remained on the drawing board due to funding challenges, policy changes, and lack of political will. The port was initially planned as a joint project between Ogun State and Ondo State, but progress stalled for years.
According to Abiodun, the renewed approval by President Tinubu signals a fresh commitment to the project and Nigeria’s broader maritime and economic development.
“Our proposed Olokola Port, which has been on the drawing board for several years, is now back on the table,” the governor said. “I want to sincerely thank Mr President because this is solely his initiative.”
He revealed that in the last two weeks alone, several high-level meetings had been held on the project, adding that the President has clearly expressed his desire to see the port become a reality.
Governor Abiodun explained that the Olokola Deep Seaport would help reduce pressure on existing ports in Lagos, which are often congested and slow in cargo handling.
He said President Tinubu has directed that construction work on the port should be far advanced between now and next year, stressing the urgency of the project.
“With the coastal road now providing an alternative logistics corridor, this port presents a strong opportunity to decongest the Lagos ports,” the governor said.
According to him, the new port will support trade, improve ease of doing business, and attract both local and foreign investors to Ogun State.
He further disclosed that the seaport would be known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, reflecting its coastal location and wide economic potential. The zone is expected to host industries, logistics hubs, and other marine-related businesses.
Governor Abiodun praised the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, noting that the naval presence would play a key role in securing the area as oil drilling and port activities begin.
He said the base would help prevent illegal activities, stop infiltration from neighbouring Benin Republic, and protect Nigeria’s territorial waters.
“The naval presence there will discourage any attempts to undermine our territorial integrity,” the governor said.
He added that his administration is already working to provide basic amenities such as electricity, water, healthcare, and roads for residents of Tongeji Island and surrounding communities.
According to him, these efforts are part of a broader plan to improve living conditions and support the economic activities that will emerge from oil drilling and port operations.
Governor Abiodun commended the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies for their role in maintaining peace and stability in Ogun State. He said strong collaboration among security agencies has helped the state remain relatively peaceful compared to some neighbouring areas.
Describing Rear Admiral Mustapha as a seasoned and accomplished officer, the governor expressed confidence that security in the state would further improve under his leadership.
“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,” Abiodun said.
Earlier, Rear Admiral Mustapha described Ogun State as critical and strategic to Nigeria’s national security, especially due to its long coastline and proximity to the Republic of Benin.
He disclosed that the naval outpost at Tongeji Island would be upgraded to a full Forward Operations Base in view of the area’s oil potential and growing economic importance.
According to him, the visit was aimed at strengthening cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and the Ogun State Government.
“One of our responsibilities is to secure Nigeria’s border with the Republic of Benin and prevent criminal elements from gaining a foothold in Ogun State,” Mustapha said.
He added that the Navy remains committed to protecting maritime assets and supporting economic activities along Nigeria’s coastline.
The approval of oil drilling and the Olokola Deep Seaport marks a new chapter for Ogun Waterside and the state at large. Analysts say the projects could transform the area into a major economic hub if properly managed.
For now, residents of Ogun Waterside are hopeful that years of waiting may soon give way to real development, as activities begin to pick up following President Tinubu’s approvals.
With oil drilling and port construction set to take off, Ogun State appears poised to play a bigger role in Nigeria’s oil, gas, and maritime sectors.