Ogun State is set to join Nigeria’s oil-producing states following President Bola Tinubu’s approval for the commencement of commercial crude oil drilling at Tongeji Island, the state government has said.
The development was disclosed by Governor Dapo Abiodun in a statement posted on his verified Facebook page, where he described the approval as a turning point for Ogun’s coastal axis and its host communities.
Abiodun said the presidential nod places the state “on a clear path towards becoming an oil-producing state,” describing it as “a major breakthrough for our coastal communities” that opens fresh prospects for economic participation and long-term growth.
In a related decision, the governor announced that President Tinubu has also approved the immediate take-off of the Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, ending years of delay surrounding the project.
He said the multibillion-dollar port project has now been activated and will be renamed the Blue Marine Economic Zone. According to him, the seaport is expected to ease pressure on existing ports in Lagos, create new commercial and industrial opportunities, and maximise Ogun’s coastal position, with the ongoing coastal highway offering an alternative route for cargo movement.
Abiodun also acknowledged the Nigerian Navy for setting up a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, noting that the facility would boost border security, protect upcoming oil activities, and secure Nigeria’s territorial waters.
“As a responsible government, we remain committed to providing basic amenities for the island communities,” the governor said, adding that the state will continue to work closely with security agencies to maintain peace and safety across Ogun.
