Gov. Abiodun Unveils Tinubu’s Nod for Oil Drilling, Olokola Seaport Take-Off in Ogun
— Port Rebranded as Blue Marine Economic Zone
Ogun State is poised to become an oil-producing State following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval for the commencement of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area, Global Mirror News has gathered.
Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this on Thursday December 22, while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, alongside Senior Officers, during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
The Governor also announced that President Tinubu has approved the immediate take-off of the long-delayed Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, marking a major breakthrough after years of anticipation surrounding the multibillion-dollar development.
According to Abiodun, both projects are of special interest to the President. He noted that while the Olokola Deep Seaport would significantly ease congestion at the Lagos ports, oil drilling at Tongeji Island would drive economic inclusion, job creation, and development across coastal communities.
“Mr President has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling operations at Tongeji Island, and very soon, there will be visible activities in that area,” the Governor said.
On the seaport project, Abiodun revealed that intensive engagements have been ongoing at the Federal level.
Global Mirror News gathered that President Tinubu has directed that construction work on the port should be substantially advanced between now and next year.
The Governor further disclosed that the Olokola Deep Seaport will now operate as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, a name reflecting its strategic coastal positioning and expansive commercial potential, especially with the coastal road providing an alternative logistics corridor.
Abiodun commended the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, noting that the move would enhance border security, prevent infiltration from the Republic of Benin, and safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
He added that his administration is making plans to provide basic amenities for island residents in line with expected economic growth.
The Governor praised the Nigerian Navy’s role in maintaining peace in Ogun State, attributing the State’s relative stability to effective collaboration among Security Agencies.
He described Rear Admiral Mustapha as a seasoned Officer whose leadership would further strengthen security in the State.
Earlier, Rear Admiral Mustapha described Ogun State as strategically important to Nigeria’s National Security, disclosing 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 synergy between the Nigerian Navy and the Ogun State Government in border security and crime prevention.
