BY ABISOGUN MOBOLAJI AKINBOLANLE
To ensure that the people of Ogun State and its coastal areas are adequately protected, Governor Dapo Abiodun has directed the Nigerian Navy to establish a naval facility in the coastal area of Ogun State. According to Abiodun, Ogun Waterside’s proximity to the Niger Delta has raised security concerns in the past.
He noted that residents of the Niger Delta are committing crimes and invading the region, which is why the presence of the Navy there is important as the state’s seaport will also be located there.
During a courtesy visit to his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the Governor called on Rear Admiral Mustafa Bali Hassan, General Officer Commanding, Western Command, Nigerian Navy.
He argued that the presence of the Nigerian Navy would be very welcome since the surrounding towns could only be reached by sea and his government’s efforts to ensure the safety of the people in this axis resulted in the purchase of gunboats for the police.
“Ogun State Port in Olokola Region is primarily under the jurisdiction of the Navy and is currently under development. » Since it’s been in development for so long, we’ll reveal what’s new soon. For some reason it didn’t happen then, but sooner or later it will happen.
This area will host many activities requiring a strong naval presence. The governor said: “The Federal Government is reviving a multi-billion dollar project that would entail significant liabilities for the Navy due to its location in the territorial seas around Ogun Waterside.”
He informed the Nigerian Navy that a committee would be established to collaborate with the force in determining a site where an administrative building would be made available for their use, and he also mentioned that his administration is working tirelessly to turn the State into an oil-producing state.
He further said that the Republic of Benin does not claim ownership of the oil-rich enclave of Tongeji Island in the Ipokia Local Government Area of Ipokia State and is therefore part of Nigeria.
According to the governor, Ogun State has always comprised the island and its people and they have no connection with other nations.
“Contrary to popular belief, I raised the matter with the President of the Republic of Benin during our two meetings and informed him that Tongeji Island was off-limits to them. They are not fighting alongside us for the island.
“It is true that we are leaving our mark in this place by helping the locals. I will have our Public Works Department team visit the pier you mentioned and assess the situation so we can determine the costs involved. You have raised issues related to basic healthcare, water supply and electricity.
