Honourable Olateju Olasunkanmi Oluwatosin has welcomed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval for the commencement of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State, describing the decision as historic, visionary and a major economic turning point for the people of Yewa South/Ipokia Federal Constituency and Ogun State at large.
In a press statement issued on Friday, Hon. Olateju, who is seeking to represent the Yewa South/Ipokia Federal Constituency at the National Assembly in 2027, said the President’s approval demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusive national development and the economic empowerment of previously marginalised coastal communities.
According to him, the development, which coincides with the approval for the immediate take-off of the Olokola Deep Seaport project, places Ogun State, and particularly Yewa land, on a strategic economic map that will unlock jobs, boost local content participation and stimulate sustainable growth across the constituency.
“The approval of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island is a landmark decision that will redefine the economic future of Yewa South and Ipokia. This is not just about oil; it is about opportunity, inclusion and long-overdue recognition of the immense potential of our coastal communities,” Hon. Olateju stated.
He commended President Tinubu for what he described as bold leadership and foresight, noting that the decision aligns with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic expansion, infrastructural development and shared prosperity.
Hon. Olateju also applauded Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his persistent engagement with the Federal Government and for ensuring that Ogun State’s long-standing aspiration to become an oil-producing state has finally materialised.
While welcoming the Nigerian Navy’s upgraded presence at Tongeji Island to safeguard national assets and territorial integrity, Hon. Olateju stressed the need for deliberate policies to ensure that host communities benefit directly from the oil exploration activities.
He called for transparent stakeholder engagement, environmental protection, youth employment, skills acquisition and the provision of critical social infrastructure to the people of Yewa South/Ipokia.
“As this project takes off, it is important that the interests of our people are protected. The host communities must not only feel the presence of oil exploration but also enjoy its dividends through jobs, improved infrastructure, education and healthcare,” he added.
Hon. Olateju further described the approval of the Olokola Deep Seaport—now to be known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone—as a complementary project that would enhance trade, decongest Lagos ports and position Ogun State as a major maritime and logistics hub in West Africa.
Reaffirming his commitment to purposeful representation, Hon. Olateju said the development reinforces his resolve to provide effective, people-oriented leadership at the National Assembly, should he be given the mandate in 2027.
“This moment strengthens my conviction that Yewa South/Ipokia deserves strong representation that will protect our interests, attract development and ensure that no opportunity like this is wasted,” he concluded.
