President Tinubu Approves Commercial Oil Drilling, Olokola Deep Seaport In Ogun State
Nigeria’s energy and maritime landscape is set for a major shift as President Bola Tinubu has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling in Ogun State, officially positioning the state as an emerging oil-producing hub.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, disclosed the approval on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, and senior naval officers to the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
According to the governor, President Tinubu authorised commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, describing the development as a landmark step that will unlock economic opportunities for coastal communities and deepen national energy output.
Governor Abiodun also revealed that the President has approved the immediate take-off of the long-delayed Olokola Deep Seaport project, a multibillion-dollar infrastructure initiative located in Ogun Waterside. He noted that both projects are of special interest to the President and have received direct presidential backing.
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He explained that while the Olokola Deep Seaport would significantly decongest the overstretched Lagos ports, the oil drilling project would promote economic inclusion, job creation, and regional development in the state’s coastal areas.
“Mr President has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling operations at Tongeji Island, and going forward, there will be a lot of activities there,” Abiodun said.
He added that the proposed seaport, which will operate as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, has returned to the front burner after years of stagnation, stressing that President Tinubu has directed that construction should be well advanced between now and next year.
The governor further highlighted the strategic importance of the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, noting that the naval presence would help secure Nigeria’s maritime borders, prevent infiltration from the Republic of Benin, and safeguard emerging oil and port infrastructure.
Governor Abiodun praised the Nigerian Navy for its role in maintaining security in Ogun State and assured residents of ongoing efforts to provide basic amenities to support growing economic activities in the coastal communities.
In his remarks, Rear Admiral Mustapha described Ogun State as strategically vital to Nigeria’s national security, revealing that the naval outpost at Tongeji Island would be upgraded in response to the area’s oil potential. He said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and the Ogun State Government to protect Nigeria’s territorial and economic interests.