Ogun’s Coastal Economy Gets a Major Boost as Approval Is Secured for Oil Drilling and Seaport Revival

Ogun State is set to undergo a major economic transformation following President Bola Tinubu’s approval for commercial oil drilling and the revival of the long-awaited Olokola Deep Seaport project. The dual decisions position the state as an emerging player in Nigeria’s energy, maritime, and blue economy landscape.

Governor Dapo Abiodun confirmed the approvals in Abeokuta during an engagement with senior officers of the Nigerian Navy, led by the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha. The governor described the developments as the outcome of renewed federal commitment to unlocking Ogun’s coastal and offshore potential.

At the centre of the energy push is Tongeji Island, a coastal community in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, where commercial oil drilling is expected to begin. Abiodun said activities in the area would soon intensify, opening up new economic opportunities for residents who have long remained on the margins of Nigeria’s oil economy.

Beyond oil exploration, the federal government has also cleared the Olokola Deep Seaport for immediate implementation after years of delays. Once operational, the port is expected to reduce pressure on the overstretched Lagos ports while serving as a strategic maritime gateway for the South-West and beyond.

The governor noted that discussions around Olokola have gained momentum in recent weeks, with President Tinubu personally driving the process. He revealed that the President has directed that visible progress should be achieved on the project within the next year, underscoring the urgency attached to its delivery.

In a move to reflect its broader ambition, the Olokola project has been rebranded as the Blue Marine Economic Zone. According to Governor Abiodun, the initiative is designed to catalyse large-scale investments across shipping, logistics, manufacturing, energy services, and coastal trade, supported by the proposed coastal highway that will enhance connectivity.

Security considerations also featured prominently in the state’s preparations. The Governor praised the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, describing it as critical to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime borders and protecting strategic assets as economic activities expand in the area.

He added that his administration is working to improve infrastructure and social services in host communities to ensure that residents benefit directly from the new investments, rather than merely bearing the environmental and social burden of development.

Rear Admiral Mustapha, in his remarks, described Ogun State as strategically vital to national security, particularly given its proximity to international borders and growing economic significance. He confirmed that the naval presence in Tongeji would be strengthened to match the area’s oil potential and rising commercial profile.

The naval chief said the visit was part of ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and the Ogun State Government, especially in preventing cross-border crimes and securing emerging economic corridors.

With federal backing now firmly in place, Ogun State stands at the threshold of a new phase, one that could redefine its role within Nigeria’s energy sector, maritime trade network, and coastal economy, while extending the benefits of growth to previously underserved communities.