Daud Olatunji
The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has been commended for his pivotal role in securing the Certificate of Occupancy for the Navy Forward Operational Base in Abigi, Ogun Waterside Local Government.
The Senate Committee on Navy, chaired by Senator Gbenga Daniel, confirmed that the base will be constructed with a funding allocation of two billion naira (N2 billion), secured in the 2024 Appropriation.
Daniel in a letter addressed to Abiodun said the funding was facilitated through the backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Daniel expressed profound gratitude for the Governor’s efforts in obtaining the necessary land documentation, enabling the commencement of construction.
“This singular gesture of yours will enable construction work to start on the site in earnest,” Senator Daniel stated, emphasizing the project’s strategic importance.
The Senator further acknowledged the historical context of the site, which he said was originally donated by the community through local traditional rulers for Navy hydrographic purposes.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that despite the initial allocation, activities on the site remained dormant until Senator Daniel assumed his current role.
“My emergence as the Chairman, Senate Committee on Navy provided the needed opportunity to once again kickstart the project with an expanded dimension,” he noted.
The letter further read that the project has also received strong backing from local traditional rulers, notably, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba S.K. Adetona, whose advocacy, Daniel said was instrumental in advancing the base’s development.
He added that the Ojotumoro of Abigi and the Osobia of Makun, among other local rulers, were also lauded for their unwavering support.
Senator Daniel said concerns had been raised in the community about the potential relocation of the project to another state, particularly following the loss of the Dangote Refinery to Lagos years earlier.
Senator Daniel reassured stakeholders that such fears have been allayed,saying, thanks to the concerted efforts of all parties involved.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, was also recognized for his steadfast partnership in the project, reflecting the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime assets.
Senator Daniel extended his appreciation to President Tinubu for his dedication to securing Nigeria’s territorial waters and his indispensable role in actualizing the Abigi Naval Forward Operational Base.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
