The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun says infrastructure and industrial development in the state, particularly the Deep Sea Port, Blue Marine Special Economic Zone, and Cargo Airport, are to create jobs, attract investment and boost Nigeria’s economic growth.
Governor Abiodun noted that the region’s strategic location, proximity to Lagos and growing infrastructure would boost manufacturing, maritime trade, logistics and employment, with benefits extending beyond Ogun State to the wider Nigerian economy.
The Governor spoke at the weekend during the investiture of the Commissioner for Environment, Oladimeji Oresanya, as the 19th president of Sagamu Club in Sagamu, Ogun State.
He said the emerging economic opportunities also strengthened the case for the creation of an additional state in the area, urging community leaders and other stakeholders to work with the government to maximise the region’s development potential.
Governor Abiodun said that a major component of the plan is the proposed Gateway Deep Sea Port and Blue Marine Special Economic Zone in Ogun Waterside which are expected to open up opportunities in shipping, manufacturing, warehousing, export processing and freight transportation.
He noted that if successfully implemented and supported by adequate infrastructure, the developments could strengthen Nigeria’s maritime capacity, attract international investment, and create jobs across several sectors, including agriculture, construction and small businesses.
Governor Abiodun disclosed that another strategic asset expected to improve connectivity for businesses, investors, and cargo operators is the Gateway International Airport in Iperu, Ikenne Local Government Area.
He said the region’s road network could further support the movement of goods and people, while a proposal to convert Ogere Park into a dry port could enhance freight distribution and strengthen the area’s logistics capacity.
The Governor noted that the emerging energy sector, including prospects associated with the proposed Ogun-LNG project, could also support industrial expansion, subject to commercial viability and effective implementation.
Governor Abiodun urged community institutions to complement government efforts through education, youth empowerment and entrepreneurship.
He told Oresanya and his executive committee to prioritise members’ welfare, youth development and community advancement, while strengthening collaboration with the state government on security, education and sustainable development.
The Governor also encouraged the club to support young people through scholarships, mentorship and start-up grants, stressing “the importance of collective action in achieving sustainable growth.”
Delivering the Keynote Address, a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Tunde Lemo, identified Remoland’s proximity to Lagos as a major economic advantage that could attract investment and expand commercial activities.
Lemo called for urgent action to address improper waste disposal by factories along the industrial corridor, warning that environmental concerns must not be overlooked in the pursuit of economic growth.
In his acceptance speech, Oresanya described social clubs as platforms for building relationships, mobilising resources and promoting community development.
He pledged to improve members’ welfare, strengthen the club’s community impact and make its programmes more responsive to emerging social needs.
Oresanya also called for stronger partnerships among government, the private sector and community organisations, expressing confidence that collective efforts would expand the club’s contributions to youth development and sustainable growth in Sagamu and Remoland.
