- Gives nod to Olokola Deep Seaport Take-off

Ogun State’s long-held ambition to join Nigeria’s league of oil-producing states is set to become a reality following the approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the commencement of commercial oil drilling in Eba, Ogun Waterside area of the State.

Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this on Thursday while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, and senior officers during a courtesy visit to the Governor’s Office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The governor also announced that President Tinubu has approved the immediate take-off of the long-awaited Olokola Deep Seaport project also in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.

According to Abiodun, both the oil drilling initiative and the seaport project are of special interest to the President, who is determined to see them implemented without further delay.

He said commercial drilling activities would soon commence at Eba in Ogun waterside, bringing increased economic activities and inclusion to coastal communities in the state.

The governor explained that the Olokola Deep Seaport, which has been on the drawing board for years, has now received renewed presidential backing.

He disclosed that several high-level meetings have been held in recent weeks, with President Tinubu directing that construction of the port should be substantially advanced between now and next year.

Abiodun noted that the seaport would play a critical role in decongesting the Lagos ports, particularly with the coastal road providing an alternative logistics corridor.

He further revealed that the new port would be known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, reflecting its coastal advantage and immense commercial potential.

Commending the Nigerian Navy, the governor said the establishment of a Forward Operations Base in Ogun East would enhance security, prevent cross-border infiltration from the Republic of Benin and safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

He added that the state government is also working to provide basic amenities for residents of waterside to improve living conditions and support emerging economic opportunities.

Governor Abiodun expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Navy for its role in strengthening Ogun State’s security architecture, noting that sustained collaboration among security agencies has contributed to the relative peace enjoyed 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 to a Forward Operations Base due to the area’s oil potential.

He said his visit was aimed at deepening cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and the Ogun State Government, particularly in securing the nation’s western maritime and land borders.