Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced that construction work on the Gateway Deep Seaport and Ogun State Blue Marine Special Economic Zone will commence in November. The project, valued at over $7 billion, is a partnership between the Ogun State government and DP World MEA FZE. Abiodun made the disclosure while addressing All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders in Ijebu East and Ijebu North Local Government Areas. The governor's announcement comes days after he signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DP World MEA FZE in Paris, France.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the project is scheduled to take place in November, after which construction will commence immediately. According to Abiodun, the port is expected to be substantially completed within two and a half years. The project represents a significant opportunity to unlock Ogun State's maritime and economic potential. The governor emphasized that the project would position Ogun as a major maritime destination in Africa. He also noted that Ogun State would become the marine capital of Africa and the marine hub of West Africa.
The Gateway Deep Seaport project had remained largely unrealised for more than three decades despite its enormous potential. Abiodun's administration has revived the project as part of its strategy to attract investment and accelerate economic development. The governor cited ongoing federal infrastructure projects as complementary developments that would enhance connectivity to Ogun East. These projects include the rehabilitation of the Sagamu-Ijebu-Ode-Ore Road with concrete pavement and the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
Abiodun expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for the project. The President personally witnessed the signing of the MoU and assured the investors of the Federal Government's backing. The governor also highlighted the mineral and energy resources in the senatorial district, particularly the extensive bitumen deposits in Ijebu East. He noted that Ijebu East, all the way to Ondo State, is known as the Bitumen Belt, the largest deposit of bitumen in Sub-Saharan Africa.
In addition to the bitumen deposits, Abiodun noted the presence of crude oil resources in other parts of the state, including Odogbolu. He stated that his administration would continue to explore opportunities to harness the state's natural resources for economic development. The governor's administration is committed to attracting investment and accelerating economic development in Ogun State.
Abiodun also addressed APC members in the state, commending them for remaining committed to the party despite the outcomes of the recent primaries. He called on party leaders to pursue genuine reconciliation, bring aggrieved members back into the fold, and broaden the party's membership base. The governor appealed to APC members in Ogun East to support the party's efforts to attract investment and develop the state's economy.
The Gateway Deep Seaport project is expected to have a significant impact on Ogun State's economy and maritime industry. With its completion, the port will provide a major boost to the state's economy and establish Ogun as a major maritime destination in Africa. The project's success will depend on effective implementation and collaboration between the state government, investors, and other stakeholders.
Key points
- The construction of the Gateway Deep Seaport project is expected to commence in November.
- The project is valued at over $7 billion and is a partnership between the Ogun State government and DP World MEA FZE.
- The port is expected to be substantially completed within two and a half years and will position Ogun as a major maritime destination in Africa.
