Tinubu Approves Commercial Oil Drilling In Ogun
President Bola Tinubu has given the go-ahead for commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area, Ogun State, signaling a major step for the state’s coastal development.
Governor Dapo Abiodun announced the approval on Thursday while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, and senior officers during a courtesy visit to his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
The governor also disclosed that Tinubu has authorized the immediate launch of the Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, ending years of anticipation for the multibillion-dollar port.
According to Abiodun, both projects hold particular significance for the President. While the Olokola Deep Seaport is expected to reduce congestion at Lagos ports, commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island aims to foster economic inclusion and empower residents of coastal communities.
“Mr President has approved the start of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island, and activities will soon begin there. Our Olokola Port project, long in the planning stages, is now officially back on track. I sincerely thank Mr President, as this initiative comes entirely from him. In just the past two weeks, we have held multiple meetings on Olokola, and the President is committed to making this port a reality,” the governor said.
Abiodun added that the President has instructed that port construction be significantly advanced by next year. The project, to be named the Blue Marine Economic Zone, will serve as a strategic coastal hub and provide an alternative logistics corridor to ease pressure on Lagos ports.
The governor also commended the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, noting that the presence of naval forces will help prevent incursions from the Republic of Benin and protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Abiodun said his administration is working to improve living conditions on the island by providing basic amenities to support residents and boost emerging economic activities. He also praised the Navy’s role in Ogun State’s security, emphasizing that inter-agency cooperation has helped maintain the state’s relative peace.
Describing Rear Admiral Mustapha as a highly experienced officer, Abiodun expressed confidence that Ogun State would benefit from enhanced security and development under his leadership.
“We are happy that someone with your training, background, and experience is in this role. You are truly a round peg in a round hole,” he said.
