Ogun State’s long-standing ambition to become an oil-producing state is set to materialize following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval for commercial oil drilling at Eba, Ogun Waterside.

Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this 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 Abeokuta.

The governor also revealed that President Tinubu has approved the immediate take-off of the Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. The new seaport will be known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, reflecting its strategic coastal location and vast economic potential.

According to Governor Abiodun, both initiatives are of special interest to the President. He said the Olokola Deep Seaport would help decongest Lagos ports, while oil drilling at Eba would promote inclusion and economic empowerment for residents of the coastal communities.

Governor Abiodun noted that President Tinubu directed that construction of the port should progress significantly within the next year. He also commended the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island to enhance security and protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity, especially given the area’s significant oil potential.

Rear Admiral Mustapha described Ogun State as critical to national security and said the naval outpost at Tongeji Island would be upgraded to strengthen border protection and prevent criminal infiltration from the Republic of Benin.

Governor Abiodun lauded the collaboration between the Ogun State Government and the Nigerian Navy, noting that it has contributed to the state’s peace and security.