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 assurances on Tuesday at the Ogun East Senatorial District stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu-Ode, where he engaged representatives of various groups on traditional affairs, governance and economic development.
On the succession process for the Awujale stool, the governor said his administration was committed to ensuring a peaceful and widely acceptable process, urging the people to remain calm and patient as the necessary procedures were being concluded.
He described the Awujale institution as an important symbol of the cultural heritage, identity and unity of Ijebuland, adding that his administration was giving the matter the attention it deserved.
Abiodun said the stakeholders’ meeting was organised to strengthen engagement between the government and residents, provide an avenue for addressing community concerns and showcase his administration’s achievements over the past seven years.
On economic development, the governor said Ogun East was positioned for significant expansion, driven by emerging oil exploration activities around Eba Island and the proposed Gateway Deep-Sea Port in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.
He explained that the projects, alongside the proposed Blue Marine Special Economic Zone, could attract investments, create employment opportunities and strengthen the state’s position in industrial development, international trade and maritime business.
The governor added that the deep-sea port was expected to create opportunities in shipping, logistics and manufacturing, while stimulating economic activities across Ogun East and other parts of the state.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and investment promotion, while acknowledging the Federal Government’s support for development projects in Ogun State.
Abiodun also called for sustained cooperation between the state and federal governments to accelerate major projects and improve residents’ living conditions.
Representatives of market men and women, hunters, members of the Council of Baales and Olorituns commended the governor for providing a platform to discuss issues affecting their communities.
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 featured discussions on the Awujale succession process, infrastructure, investment opportunities and the future of Ogun East, with Abiodun pledging continued engagement with stakeholders to promote peace and sustainable development across the district.
