How Governor Dapo Abiodun Conquered the Skies, Roads and Seas

Governor Dapo Abiodun attains renown where endeavour flowers, and his legend blossoms on the stem of his innate gifts.

A nurturing virtuoso, he bears the stamp of genius in his peerless deeds, each milestone dazzling like the proverbial signpost of interminable genius.

There are several reasons to celebrate Governor Abiodun. First, he has woven a grand tapestry of development that transcends the traditional confines of governance. Second, through bold initiatives and relentless determination, he has elevated Ogun State by conquering the skies, roads, and seas, setting a new benchmark for infrastructural excellence. The list is endless.

From the moment the first plane touched down at the  Gateway Cargo Airport, it was clear that Governor Abiodun’s vision was not just ambitious but revolutionary. Situated strategically to serve as a pivotal aviation hub in West Africa, the Gateway Cargo Airport is a marvel of modern engineering and foresight. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the airport is designed to handle the demands of both domestic and international cargo, catalyzing economic growth and providing a seamless connection between Ogun State and global markets.

The airport’s advanced logistics capabilities and expansive runway have attracted a myriad of airlines and cargo operators, cementing Ogun State’s reputation as a critical player in the global supply chain. This venture, expected to generate 25,000 jobs, marks the commencement of commercial operations at the Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport in Q1 2024, underlining Governor Abiodun’s commitment to pioneering economic development through aviation.

Paving the Future: Expansive Road Networks

On land, Governor Abiodun’s achievements are equally impressive. Under his administration, Ogun State has witnessed the rehabilitation of 500 kilometres of roads, significantly enhancing transportation and connectivity for residents. These road networks not only improve the internal infrastructure but also link Ogun to neighbouring states, facilitating commerce and fostering social integration.

Governor Abiodun’s strategic road development projects have significantly reduced travel times, improved safety, and boosted the local economy by making it easier for businesses to operate. The governor’s commitment to equitable development is evident in the spread of infrastructural projects across all 20 Local Government Areas, ensuring no part of the state is left behind. Additionally, his administration has constructed over 3,000 affordable housing units, with a target to deliver over 8,000 units by 2027, illustrating a holistic approach to infrastructure that includes housing as a key component.

Commanding the Waves: The Olokola Seaport
Governor Abiodun’s conquests extend to the maritime domain, where his work on the Olokola Deep Seaport underscores his comprehensive approach to development. Located in the Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, the Olokola Deep Seaport has gained momentum, thanks to Abiodun’s successful navigation through necessary approvals and his appeal to the Nigerian Shippers Council for partnership and guidance. To ensure the port’s seamless takeoff, the state is setting up a committee to interlace with the port economic regulator, ensuring adherence to international standards and business practices.

With the port in full operation, Nigeria is poised to see a significant improvement in the outward traffic of agricultural produce via the Olokola Seaport. This transformative project not only opens new avenues for trade but also creates employment opportunities, stimulating local economies and enhancing the overall prosperity of Ogun State. The seaport, along with the development of the Kajola dry port, will ease import and export processes for over 6,000 industries in the state.

Smart Cities and Sustainable Development
In his quest to ensure a sustainable and environmentally friendly development model, Governor Abiodun has initiated plans to create smart cities across Ogun State. During the 2024 World Environment Day, themed “Achieving the Smart City Agenda Through Climate Change Resilience and Urban Afforestation,” he emphasized the importance of collective efforts to combat climate change. His administration has implemented initiatives to enhance green spaces, promote sustainable transportation, and reduce carbon emissions, with over 100 hectares in Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, Ota, and other locations being restructured to become environmentally friendly through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).

Collaborating with urban planners, architects, and other stakeholders, Governor Abiodun is driving the regeneration schemes across all urban centres in Ogun State, demonstrating his commitment to creating a safer, more sustainable environment for all residents.

Oil Exploration: A New Frontier
On Abiodun’s watch, Ogun State is set to become an oil-producing state, marking another significant milestone in its development journey. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) has announced plans to commence oil and gas exploration in Ogun State. This announcement followed a visit by key stakeholders, including Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Heineken Lokpobiri, Shell Petroleum Development Company Ltd. MD Osagie Okubor, Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission CEO Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, and NNPC Ltd. Group CEO Mele Kyari.

Hon. Lokpobiri highlighted Ogun State’s potential as part of the Dahomey Basin, known for its significant hydrocarbon deposits, emphasizing the federal government’s commitment to resuming exploration in various basins, including Ogun, to support Nigeria’s economic prosperity through oil and gas. Mele Kyari expressed optimism about finding oil in commercial quantities in Ogun State, commending its strategic location within the Dahomey Basin.

Governor Abiodun acknowledged Ogun State’s inclusion in oil prospecting licences (OPLs) 302, 303, 306, and 307, positioning the state as a Frontier Exploration State under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). He highlighted the state’s investment appeal, low operational costs, and strong support from the state government, also noting the area’s potential for bitumen extraction, which could reduce import dependency and save foreign exchange.

A Legacy of Leadership
Governor Dapo Abiodun’s strategic initiatives across air, land, and sea are more than just infrastructural projects; they are a testament to visionary leadership that understands the importance of integrated development. By addressing the needs of the present while anticipating future demands, Abiodun has set Ogun State on a path of sustained growth and development.

Through his relentless drive and unwavering commitment, Governor Abiodun has not just conquered air, land, and sea but has also won the hearts of the people of Ogun State, leaving a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.