President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State, a development that places the state firmly on the path to becoming an oil-producing hub.
The historic approval is expected to transform coastal communities in the state, ushering in a new era of economic inclusion, job creation and accelerated development for residents of the oil-bearing areas.
In a related breakthrough, the President has also granted approval for the immediate take-off of the long-awaited Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. The multibillion-dollar project, which had stalled for years, has now been revived and rebranded as the Blue Marine Economic Zone.
The proposed seaport is projected to significantly decongest the Lagos ports, unlock vast commercial and investment opportunities, and fully harness Ogun State’s strategic coastal advantage. Its impact is expected to be further strengthened by the ongoing coastal road project, which will provide an alternative logistics and trade corridor.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Navy has established a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island to enhance border security, protect emerging oil exploration activities, and safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity in the coastal region.
The Ogun State Government reaffirmed its commitment to providing basic amenities for island communities and deepening collaboration with security agencies to sustain peace, safety and stability across the state.
The approvals are widely seen as major milestones that will reposition Ogun State as a key player in Nigeria’s energy, maritime and blue economy sectors.
