Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has assured the people of Ijebuland that a new Awujale will emerge before May 29, 2027, while projecting significant economic growth for Ogun East Senatorial District through oil exploration and the proposed Gateway Deep-Sea Port.
Abiodun gave the assurance on Tuesday at a stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu-Ode, where he engaged representatives of various interest groups on traditional affairs, governance and the economic prospects of the district.
On the succession process for the Awujale stool, the governor said his administration was committed to ensuring a peaceful, smooth and widely accepted process leading to the emergence of a new monarch.
He acknowledged the importance of the Awujale institution to the cultural heritage, identity and unity of Ijebuland, urging residents to remain calm and patient while the necessary procedures were being completed.
Abiodun said the government was giving the matter the attention it deserved to ensure that the eventual emergence of a new Awujale enjoyed the acceptance and support of the people.
He thanked the people of Ijebuland for their continued support and cooperation, assuring them that his administration would continue to address issues affecting the district and promote peace and harmony across the state.
The governor explained that the stakeholders’ meeting was organised to strengthen engagement between the government and residents, provide an avenue for different groups to express their views and highlight the achievements of his administration over the past seven years.
Turning to the economic prospects of Ogun East, Abiodun said the district was on the verge of significant economic expansion, driven by emerging oil exploration activities and the proposed Gateway Deep-Sea Port in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.
He identified the discovery of crude oil around Eba Island and the proposed port as strategic developments that could transform the district’s economy, attract investment and create employment opportunities.
The governor said the projects, alongside the proposed Blue Marine Special Economic Zone, would strengthen Ogun State’s position as a destination for industrial investment, international trade and maritime business.
According to him, the deep-sea port is expected to create opportunities in shipping, logistics, manufacturing and related industries, while supporting industrial development across Ogun East and other parts of the state.
Abiodun expressed optimism that the investments would increase the district’s commercial importance, expand opportunities for local businesses and create jobs for young people, while contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, investment promotion and policies aimed at improving residents’ living conditions.
The governor also stressed the importance of cooperation among government institutions, traditional rulers, communities and the private sector in achieving the state’s development objectives.
He acknowledged the Federal Government’s support for critical infrastructure and development initiatives in Ogun State, thanking President Bola Tinubu for his cooperation with the state government.
Abiodun called for continued collaboration between the two tiers of government, noting that such partnerships were necessary to advance major projects and unlock the state’s economic potential.
Representatives of various groups at the meeting, including market men and women, hunters, members of the Council of Baales and Olorituns, commended the governor for engaging grassroots stakeholders and providing a platform to discuss issues affecting their communities.
They described the meeting as an opportunity to improve communication between the government and residents, noting that direct engagement was important for understanding local concerns and promoting development at the grassroots.
The representatives also expressed support for the administration’s development initiatives and pledged to mobilise their members and supporters for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidates in the forthcoming general elections.
The meeting provided an opportunity for discussions on the Awujale succession process, infrastructure development, investment opportunities and the future of Ogun East.
Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working with stakeholders to promote peace, prosperity and sustainable development across the district.
