Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced that the State is set to experience a major economic transformation with the commencement of commercial oil drilling at Eba and renewed efforts to operationalize the Olokola Deep Seaport.
The projects, backed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, are expected to boost trade, create jobs, and strengthen the state’s position as a key player in Nigeria’s coastal and maritime economy.
Governor Abiodun made the disclosure over the weekend during a courtesy visit by the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, at the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
He described the approvals as a historic milestone for Ogun State’s economic and industrial development.
Abiodun revealed that the approval for commercial oil exploration at Eba will place Ogun among Nigeria’s oil-producing States, unlocking 13 per cent derivation funds, stimulating growth in riverine communities, and opening up opportunities for employment and infrastructure development. He also highlighted the potential for bitumen extraction in the Area.
On maritime development, the Governor said the Olokola Deep Seaport, to be developed as a Blue Marine Economic Zone, is now back on the Federal Agenda and is expected to become operational next year.
The port will decongest Lagos ports, accommodate large vessels, and serve as a key logistics hub for goods destined for Nigeria’s hinterland and beyond.
Abiodun added that the projects would enhance coastal security, noting that the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island—on land provided by the state—will oversee the coastline from Ogun to Edo State, curbing illegal activities and cross-border infiltration.
He linked the oil and port initiatives to the state’s broader infrastructure programs, including the Gateway International Airport and Aerotropolis at Iperu-Ilishan, which features a 4-kilometre runway capable of handling wide-body aircraft for cargo, agricultural exports, and logistics services.
The Governor stressed that these developments align with his administration’s ISEYA agenda, focused on industrialization, security, economic growth, youth empowerment, and agriculture, and reaffirmed Ogun State’s commitment to working with federal agencies and private investors to ensure timely project delivery.
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