Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has assured the people of Ijebuland that a new Awujale will emerge before the end of his tenure on May 29, 2027.
Abiodun gave the assurance on Tuesday at the Ogun East Senatorial District stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu-Ode, where he also projected significant economic growth for the district through oil exploration and the proposed Gateway Deep-Sea Port.
The governor said his administration was committed to ensuring a peaceful and acceptable process for selecting the next Awujale, acknowledging the traditional institution’s importance to the cultural heritage, unity and identity of Ijebuland.
He urged residents to remain calm and patient as the necessary processes for filling the vacant stool were being concluded.
Abiodun expressed confidence that a new monarch would emerge before he leaves office, assuring the people that the matter was receiving the attention it deserved.
Oil Exploration, Deep-Sea Port to Drive Ogun East Economy
The governor said the stakeholders’ meeting was organised to strengthen communication between the government and residents, provide grassroots groups with an opportunity to express their concerns and highlight his administration’s achievements over the past seven years.
On the economic prospects of Ogun East, Abiodun said the district was approaching a period of significant economic transformation, driven by oil exploration activities around Eba Island and the proposed Gateway Deep-Sea Port in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.
He described the developments as strategic investments capable of attracting businesses, creating jobs and expanding the state’s economic base.
According to the governor, the proposed port, alongside the Blue Marine Special Economic Zone, would position Ogun State to play a greater role in international trade, maritime operations and industrial development.
He added that the projects were expected to stimulate activities in shipping, logistics, manufacturing and related sectors, creating new opportunities for businesses and young people across Ogun East.
Abiodun expressed optimism that the anticipated investments would strengthen the district’s commercial relevance and contribute to Ogun State’s overall economic growth.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, investment promotion and policies aimed at improving residents’ living conditions.
The governor also called for cooperation among government institutions, traditional rulers, communities and the private sector to achieve the state’s development objectives.
Abiodun Appreciates Tinubu, Seeks Federal Collaboration
Abiodun acknowledged the Federal Government’s support for development initiatives in Ogun State and thanked President Bola Tinubu for his cooperation with the state government.
He called for sustained collaboration between both tiers of government to facilitate major infrastructure projects and unlock the state’s economic potential.
Representatives of grassroots groups, including market men and women, hunters, members of the Council of Baales and Olorituns, commended the governor for providing a platform for direct engagement with stakeholders.
They said the meeting would improve communication between the government and local communities while providing an opportunity to discuss issues affecting residents.
The representatives also pledged to mobilise their members and supporters for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidates in the forthcoming general elections.
Chronicle NG reports that Abiodun’s assurance comes as Ijebuland awaits the emergence of a new Awujale, while the Ogun State Government highlights oil exploration and port development as potential drivers of economic growth.
