Ogun Joins Oil Producing States, As President Tinubu Approves Oil Drilling At Tongeji Island

By Ayodele Oni

Ogun state has joined the oil producing states in the country as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State.

With this development, Ogun is expected to become the tenth states to benefit from the 13 percent oil derivation fund.

A statement by Kayode Akinmade,  the Special Adviser Media to Governor Dapo Abiodun stated that this was disclosed on Thursday, by the governor.

There are currently officially nine oil producing states in Nigeria. These states are Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers.

Akwa Ibom, Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa are the largest contributors, accounting for over 80 percent of daily crude output. Other significant producers include Ondo, Lagos, Edo, Imo, Abia, and Anambra.

The governor also announced presidential approval for the immediate take-off of the Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.

Abiodun said the new seaport, to be known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, will significantly decongest Lagos ports and boost regional trade, while oil drilling at Tongeji Island will promote inclusion and economic empowerment in the coastal communities.

The statement added that construction of the Olokola Port is expected to be far advanced between now and next year, following President Tinubu’s directive.