Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has expressed strong support for the reactivation of a long-dormant oil field in the state, describing the move as critical to boosting Nigeria’s crude oil production and unlocking economic opportunities for host communities.
The governor made this known on Monday while receiving executives of Sahara Energy Group at the Government House in Akure, where discussions focused on plans to revive the oil asset that has remained inactive since 1998.
Aiyedatiwa said Ondo State possesses significant oil and gas resources that, if fully developed, could contribute substantially to the Federal Government’s target of increasing crude oil production from about 1.6 million barrels per day to 2 million barrels per day.
According to the governor, renewed investment in the sector is necessary to strengthen Ondo’s position among Nigeria’s oil-producing states and drive economic growth.
Recalling a past fire incident at the oil field, Aiyedatiwa noted that the episode exposed gaps in operational information and asset management.
“I remember when there was a fire outbreak in that very well while I was serving at the NDDC. At the time, it was claimed that there was no operation and no oil in the area. I wondered how a place with no oil could be on fire. That incident raised serious questions about the management of the asset,” he said.
The governor stressed the need for improved operational efficiency through technology and modern infrastructure, noting that addressing leakages, enhancing monitoring systems and reducing human errors would help increase production levels.
He assured Sahara Energy of the state government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for investors, emphasizing that Ondo remains peaceful and open for business.
Aiyedatiwa also disclosed that the state government has awarded dredging contracts aimed at improving access to waterways and easing logistics to production locations, while promising continued support for oil-producing communities.
“Our administration is committed to boosting investor confidence, expanding production capacity and ensuring that host communities benefit from development initiatives associated with oil exploration and production,” he said.
Earlier, Executive Director of Sahara Energy, Mr. Kola Adesina, described the oil field as a stranded asset with enormous untapped potential.
“The last time this asset was operated was in 1998. It has remained dormant for nearly three decades, which means significant value has yet to be unlocked for the benefit of the people and the economy,” Adesina said.
He revealed that Sahara Energy has commenced technical integrity tests and comprehensive assessments to determine the condition of the facility and the requirements for its full reactivation.
Adesina commended the Ondo State Government for its support and engagement, saying the company is committed to responsible resource development, technological innovation and sustained collaboration with stakeholders.
He added that achieving higher national oil production would require substantial investment, technical expertise and stronger partnerships between government institutions and industry operators.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac; Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Johnson Alabi; Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperative Services, Pastor Bola Ademuwagun; Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Tob Loko; and the Chief Executive Officer of the Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA), Barr. Emmanuel Omomowo.