Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced that construction work on the Gateway Deep Sea Port and Ogun State Blue Marine Special Economic Zone will commence in November. The project, valued at over $7 billion, is a partnership with 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 groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for November, after which construction will begin immediately.
The Ogun Deep-Sea Port project has been unrealised for over three decades despite its potential. Abiodun's administration aims to revive it as part of its strategy to attract investment and accelerate economic development. The project is expected to position Ogun as a major maritime destination in Africa. According to Abiodun, the port will enable Ogun State to become the marine capital of Africa and the marine hub of West Africa.
The governor expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, particularly for witnessing the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DP World MEA FZE in Paris, France. Abiodun also cited ongoing federal infrastructure projects, such as the rehabilitation of the Sagamu-Ijebu-Ode-Ore Road and the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, as complementary developments that will enhance connectivity to Ogun East.
Abiodun highlighted the presence of mineral and energy resources in the senatorial district, particularly the extensive bitumen deposits in Ijebu East. The area, known as the Bitumen Belt, has the largest deposit of bitumen in Sub-Saharan Africa. He also noted the presence of crude oil resources in other parts of the state, including Odogbolu.
The governor commended APC members for remaining committed to the party despite the outcome of the recent primaries. He called on party leaders to pursue genuine reconciliation and bring aggrieved members back into the fold. Abiodun also appealed to APC members in Ogun East to support the party's candidates.
Abiodun urged party members to intensify mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing that the objective is to secure victory for all APC candidates. He deployed his contacts, connections, and experience to attract additional development projects to the senatorial district. The governor aims to attract investment and accelerate economic development in Ogun State.
The Ogun Deep-Sea Port project is expected to be substantially completed within two and a half years. The port will provide a significant opportunity to unlock Ogun State's maritime and economic potential. With the construction set to begin in November, the state is poised to become a major player in Africa's maritime industry.
Key points
- The Ogun Deep-Sea Port construction is set to begin in November.
- The project is valued at over $7 billion and is a partnership with DP World MEA FZE.
- The port is expected to be substantially completed within two and a half years.
