Aiyedatiwa’s Vision for Economic Growth Attracts Sahara Energy as Ondo Moves to Revive Dormant Oil Asset
Aiyedatiwa’s Vision for Economic Growth Attracts Sahara Energy as Ondo Moves to Revive Dormant Oil Asset
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has once again demonstrated his commitment to economic transformation and investor-friendly governance as Ondo State takes decisive steps toward reactivating a major oil asset that has remained dormant for nearly three decades.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s determination to unlock the state’s vast oil and gas potential during a high-level meeting with executives of Sahara Energy Group at the Government House in Akure.
The strategic engagement focused on plans to revive an oil field that has been inactive since 1998, a move expected to boost crude oil production, create employment opportunities, attract fresh investments, and enhance Ondo State’s contribution to Nigeria’s energy sector.
Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed that Ondo State possesses enormous oil and gas resources capable of driving economic prosperity and strengthening Nigeria’s quest to increase crude oil production from the current level of about 1.6 million barrels per day to 2 million barrels per day.
The governor noted that under his administration, Ondo State is actively positioning itself as a major player in the nation’s oil and gas industry through strategic partnerships, infrastructure development, and policies that encourage private-sector participation.
Speaking on the dormant oil asset, Aiyedatiwa emphasized that its reactivation would not only increase production but also stimulate economic activities in host communities and generate additional revenue for the state and the nation.
He recalled an incident involving a fire outbreak at the oil facility years ago, describing it as evidence that the asset still possesses significant economic value despite years of inactivity.
The governor also highlighted the need for modernization, technological innovation, and improved operational systems within the petroleum sector, noting that digital solutions would help eliminate inefficiencies, reduce losses, and improve accountability across the production chain.
His administration, he said, remains focused on creating a conducive environment for investors by strengthening security, improving infrastructure, and ensuring peaceful coexistence between operators and host communities.
As part of ongoing efforts to support industrial and energy investments, Governor Aiyedatiwa disclosed that his government has commenced strategic dredging projects aimed at improving access to riverine communities and facilitating the movement of equipment and personnel to production locations.
The governor further assured Sahara Energy and other investors of the state’s unwavering support, emphasizing that Ondo remains one of the most peaceful and investment-friendly states in Nigeria.
Industry observers have praised Governor Aiyedatiwa’s proactive leadership style, noting that his administration’s engagement with major investors such as Sahara Energy and Dangote Group reflects a clear vision for economic diversification, industrialization, and sustainable development.
Earlier, Sahara Energy Group Executive Director, Kola Adesina, commended the governor for his commitment to investment promotion and economic development.
According to him, the oil asset represents a valuable but underutilized resource that has remained untapped since 1998.
Adesina disclosed that Sahara Energy has already commenced technical evaluations and integrity assessments to determine the requirements for restoring full production at the facility.
He stated that the company is committed to deploying modern technology, technical expertise, and responsible operational practices to unlock the asset’s potential while ensuring benefits for host communities and stakeholders.
The Sahara Energy executive added that successful reactivation of the field would require strong collaboration between government institutions, investors, and local communities, expressing confidence in the partnership being championed by Governor Aiyedatiwa.
Political and economic analysts believe that the governor’s strategic engagement with major investors is gradually positioning Ondo State as a leading destination for energy, industrial, and infrastructure investments in Nigeria.
With renewed efforts to revive dormant oil assets, attract fresh capital, and improve the investment climate, many stakeholders see Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration as laying the foundation for a new era of economic growth, job creation, and sustainable prosperity in Ondo State.
