By Abimbola Bamgbose
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced that President Bola Tinubu has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area, a landmark decision set to usher Ogun State into Nigeria’s league of oil-producing states.
Governor Abiodun made this known while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, alongside senior naval officers, during a courtesy visit to his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
The governor also announced that President Tinubu has approved the immediate take-off of the Olokola Deep Seaport Project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, ending years of delay surrounding the multibillion-dollar port initiative.
According to Governor Abiodun, both projects are of special interest to the President, noting that the Olokola Deep Seaport would help decongest Lagos ports, while oil drilling at Tongeji Island would drive economic inclusion and directly empower coastal communities.
He added that the proposed seaport would be known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, reflecting its strategic coastal position and vast commercial potential, adding that President Tinubu has directed that construction be significantly advanced between now and next year.
Governor Abiodun commended the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, saying the move would strengthen border security, prevent infiltration from the Benin Republic, and safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
He added that the state government is working to provide basic amenities for residents of the island to improve their living conditions and support emerging economic activities.
The governor also praised the Nigerian Navy for its role in sustaining peace and security in Ogun State, describing Rear Admiral Mustapha as a seasoned officer capable of enhancing security in the state.
Earlier, Rear Admiral Mustapha described Ogun State as strategic to Nigeria’s national security, revealing that the naval outpost at Tongeji Island would be upgraded due to the area’s oil potential.
He said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and the Ogun State Government, particularly in securing the nation’s border and preventing criminal activities.
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