President Bola Tinubu has approved the start of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area, Ogun State
Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this on Thursday while hosting the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, and other senior officers during a courtesy visit to his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Abiodun also revealed that the President has greenlit the immediate take-off of the Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, describing the approval as a major breakthrough for the long-awaited multibillion-dollar port.
According to the governor, both initiatives are of special interest to President Tinubu. While the Olokola Deep Seaport is expected to ease congestion at Lagos ports, commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island is aimed at promoting inclusion and economic empowerment for coastal communities.
“Mr President has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling operations at Tongeji Island, and you will soon witness increased activity there. Our proposed Olokola Port, which has been in planning for years, is now moving forward. I sincerely thank Mr President, as this is entirely his initiative. In just the past two weeks, we’ve held several meetings on Olokola, and the President has made clear his determination to see the port realized,” Abiodun said.
He added that the President has directed that construction of the port should be substantially advanced by next year, emphasizing its potential to decongest Lagos ports, particularly with the coastal road serving as an alternative logistics corridor. The new seaport will be called the Blue Marine Economic Zone, reflecting its strategic coastal location and economic potential.
The governor commended the Nigerian Navy for setting up a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, noting that the naval presence would deter infiltration from the neighboring Republic of Benin and protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Abiodun said his administration is working to provide essential amenities to island residents to improve living conditions and support emerging economic activities. He also praised the Navy for its role in Ogun State’s security framework, highlighting the positive impact of collaboration among security agencies in maintaining peace.
Describing Rear Admiral Mustapha as a highly experienced and accomplished officer, the governor expressed confidence that Ogun State would see improved security and development under his leadership.
“We are glad that someone with your background, training, and experience is in this position at this time. You are a round peg in a round hole,” Abiodun said.
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