Energy
How Vision and Sacrifice Made Ondo an Oil-Producing State at 50
Ondo State’s emergence as one of Nigeria’s oil-producing states was the result of visionary leadership and strategic collaboration, according to former Attorney-General of the state, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN).
Speaking at the Ondo State Golden Jubilee public lecture in Akure on Monday, Olanipekun warned that ignoring history and the counsel of elders could threaten the state’s long-term development.
The lecture, themed “Ondo State: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow”, formed part of activities marking 50 years since the creation of the state.
How Ondo became an oil-producing state
Reflecting on his time as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice under the administration of Evangelist Bamidele Olumilua, Olanipekun said Ondo’s inclusion among Nigeria’s oil-producing states in the 1990s was not accidental.
He explained that legal, political and administrative groundwork laid by the government and other stakeholders enabled the state to tap into its hydrocarbon resources.
“Leadership requires humility, the willingness to listen and adherence to truth. Ignoring advice born of experience is dangerous for any society. We are still young and we want you to lead us on,” he said.
Olanipekun stressed that Ondo’s progress was shaped by deliberate planning, foresight and difficult decisions taken at critical moments.
Why it matters
Oil production has played a significant role in expanding Ondo State’s revenue base and positioning it as a strategic economic player in Nigeria’s South-West.
Experts say understanding how those gains were achieved is crucial as the state plans its next phase of development.
Aiyedatiwa: Next 50 years must be deliberate
Declaring the lecture open, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa said Ondo’s golden jubilee should serve as a turning point for shaping its future.
“Fifty years is not just a number. It is a milestone that challenges us to rise to the responsibility of shaping the next era with wisdom, courage, and innovation,” he said.
The governor outlined plans centred on industrialisation, innovation and youth-driven growth.
He cited major projects including the Sunshine Free Trade Zone, Ondo Deep Sea Port, Golden Ceramics Industrial Plant, and Ore Ethanol Plant, which he said would boost value addition and exports.
Infrastructure, tourism and jobs
Governor Aiyedatiwa said investments in roads, bridges and energy were designed to unlock economic opportunities across the state.
Projects such as the Onyearugbulem–Irese Bridge, he noted, are improving trade routes and mobility.
He also highlighted tourism and culture as growth drivers, pointing to coastal and eco-tourism initiatives that encourage local entrepreneurship.
“Our youth are our most strategic resource,” the governor said, referencing scholarships, vocational training, digital literacy programmes and innovation hubs.
Energy expert backs Ondo’s development path
In her keynote address, Mrs Olu Verheijen, Special Adviser to the President on Energy, said Ondo’s progress was built on the contributions of ordinary citizens.
She identified gas infrastructure, modular LNG projects and the revival of the Odigbo power plants as critical to industrial expansion.
Verheijen also highlighted major infrastructure investments including the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, road expansions in Akure, teaching hospital upgrades and the Ondo Deep Sea Port.
“Value addition is the foundation for job creation, revenue generation, and the dignity of our people,” she said.
Scholarship boost for students
The guest lecturer, Prof Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, announced a ₦500,000 scholarship for the best graduating student in every public secondary school in Ondo State.
He praised the vision of the state’s founding leaders, noting that investments in education and creativity produced leaders and innovators.
Oyedele also drew attention to Ondo’s natural endowments, including fertile land, a 180-kilometre coastline, the Idanre Hills, and large bitumen deposits.
What’s next for Ondo
Prof Oyedele said initiatives such as Agenda 2076 aim to build a diversified, innovation-driven economy.
He urged unity across political, religious and generational lines to sustain progress.
“Fifty years on, Ondo State stands not only as a testament to past visionaries but as a beacon of opportunity, resilience, and innovation,” he said.
Voices from the anniversary
The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, described the anniversary as emotional and nostalgic, noting that elder statesmen and distinguished citizens would be honoured during the celebrations.
Several dignitaries attended the event, including former Governor Dr Olusegun Mimiko, traditional rulers, lawmakers, security chiefs and senior government officials.
Energy
JMG World Engineering Day 2026: Firm Pushes Smart Engineering for Sustainable Future
JMG Limited has marked World Engineering Day 2026 by calling for stronger investment in smart and sustainable engineering systems to power Nigeria’s industries and cities.
The company said this year’s theme, “Smart Engineering for a Sustainable Future through Innovation and Digitalisation,” reflects the urgent need for cleaner, more efficient energy solutions in a country battling power shortages and rising energy costs.
World Engineering Day is observed annually on 4 March, following its proclamation by UNESCO, to highlight the role engineers play in development worldwide.
Why It Matters
Nigeria’s unreliable grid power has forced many businesses and households to rely on generators, increasing costs and carbon emissions.
What JMG Is Saying
Rabi Jammal, Chief Commercial Officer at JMG, said engineering goes beyond technical systems.
“Engineering is more than machines and systems; it is about impact. Smart engineering enables businesses to operate efficiently, cities to function reliably, and communities to grow sustainably. Through innovation and digitalisation, we are redefining how energy is generated, managed, and optimised across Nigeria.”
The company provides electro-mechanical solutions including power generation, solar systems, electrical infrastructure, air compressors, cooling systems, and vertical transportation such as elevators and escalators.
JMG said its teams of mechanical, electrical, electronics, computer and chemical engineers work to reduce downtime and improve operational efficiency for clients.
Sustainability Drive Since 2018
JMG said it has prioritised renewable and hybrid energy systems since 2018.
The company introduced Lithion inverters and batteries, followed by Livfast systems in 2022.
In 2024, it expanded its solar portfolio to include LONGi solar panels, Deye lithium batteries and Must solar inverters, offering alternatives to conventional fuel-powered systems.
What’s Next?
JMG says World Engineering Day is both a celebration and a call to action.
The company plans to deepen digital integration in energy monitoring systems and expand access to cost-effective solar solutions across commercial and residential sectors.
Energy
Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Partners LPG Retailers to Curb Illegal Gas Sales in Anambra
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Anambra State has announced a new partnership with gas retailers aimed at improving safety and tackling illegal activities in the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector.
The collaboration is with the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers – Liquefied Petroleum Gas Retailers Association (NUPENG-LPGAR).
Officials say the move is designed to prevent unsafe storage, distribution and sales practices that could put lives and property at risk.
Why it matters
Cooking gas use has grown rapidly across Nigeria, as households and businesses shift away from firewood and kerosene.
State Commandant Maku Olatunde said collaboration was necessary to address what he described as “the growing concern of unregistered gas retailers in the state”.
He warned that poorly sited gas facilities could trigger disaster if not properly regulated.
He urged LPG retailers to prioritise safety and comply with industry standards, noting the regulatory role of the NSCDC in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Concerns over substandard cylinders
Speaking during a visit to the NSCDC headquarters in Awka, the Chairman of NUPENG-LPGAR in Anambra, Comrade Tochukwu Ngini, raised alarm over safety violations.
He expressed concern about the circulation of substandard gas cylinders and the presence of high-propane LPG in the market, which he said poses risks to operators and consumers.
Comrade Ngini criticised what he called “sharp practices” by unregistered retailers operating outside the union’s regulatory framework.
“We are here to solicit and perfect arrangements with the NSCDC in conducting joint enforcement operations against unregistered gas retailers, ensure compliance with best practices, and protect the public,” he said.
He pledged the union’s cooperation in promoting safety and security across the sector.
What’s next
Officials say joint enforcement operations are expected to begin, targeting illegal retailers and non-compliant operators.
The NSCDC says it will work with relevant regulatory agencies to strengthen monitoring and ensure adherence to safety standards.
Authorities have not yet announced a timeline for inspections, but industry stakeholders say stricter compliance checks are imminent.
Energy
IGP Hosts House Committee on Petroleum Resources to Boost Downstream Security
Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police has hosted members of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) to discuss stronger security measures in the country’s oil distribution sector.
The meeting took place on Thursday at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Kayode Egbetokun received the delegation led by Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream).
Police said the visit focused on improving collaboration to safeguard Nigeria’s downstream petroleum infrastructure, which includes fuel depots, pipelines and distribution networks.
Why it matters
Nigeria’s downstream sector plays a critical role in ensuring fuel supply across the country.
Disruptions caused by oil theft, pipeline vandalism and industrial unrest have in the past led to fuel shortages, higher transport costs and inflation.
In his remarks, Mr Ugochinyere commended the police leadership for what he described as proactive efforts in protecting national energy assets.
He noted the Force’s role in stabilising operations during recent industrial tensions and in curbing oil theft and vandalism.
The Inspector-General thanked the committee for its recognition and pledged continued commitment.
He said the police would intensify surveillance, improve intelligence sharing and strengthen partnerships with other agencies to secure uninterrupted fuel supply.
He also urged lawmakers to reinforce the legal framework and provide funding for personnel training, surveillance equipment and officers’ welfare.
The broader security picture
The Nigeria Police Force has in recent months increased joint operations with other security agencies to tackle oil-related crimes.
The downstream sector has remained under scrutiny amid reforms and regulatory adjustments aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s energy market.
Lawmakers say legislative backing will be crucial in closing loopholes that allow illegal activities to thrive.
What’s next?
The House Committee is expected to review policy and funding gaps affecting infrastructure protection.
Police authorities say enhanced surveillance technology and specialised training for officers deployed to oil facilities are among immediate priorities.
For many Nigerians, the outcome of this collaboration could directly affect fuel availability and prices in the months ahead.
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