A technical team from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has visited the Eba oil well in Ogun Waterside as preparations intensify for the commencement of commercial drilling operations in the state.
The inspection followed President Bola Tinubu’s approval for commercial exploration and is part of the federal government’s efforts to deploy technical capacity and infrastructure for production.
NNPC officials carried out the exercise alongside representatives from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and national security agencies to evaluate the site and confirm readiness for drilling.
The delegation was led by Hussein Aliyu, Project Coordinator for Enserv, supported by engineers and technical specialists including Wasiu Adeniyi, Onwugba Kelechi, and Engr. Rabiu M. Audu.
Governor Dapo Abiodun described the development as a landmark achievement, noting that drilling at Eba will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and attract federal presence to the state’s coastal communities.
Geological surveys previously confirmed hydrocarbons in the Ogun Waterside axis, prompting preliminary assessments and technical engagements by NNPCL.
The state government independently verified the well’s coordinates, affirming its location within Ogun.
To safeguard the project, naval security personnel have been deployed to the site for over 18 months, in collaboration with the Ogun State Government, ensuring protection of the facility and surrounding areas.
The Eba oil well is part of Nigeria’s strategic effort to expand production beyond the Niger Delta region, officials said.
The next phase will focus on regulatory compliance, environmental protection, community relations, and smooth take-off of operations.
Governor Abiodun also thanked President Tinubu for supporting the development of frontier oil basins and promoting equitable distribution of the nation’s energy resources.
