Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East Senatorial District, has praised President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing efforts to secure and safeguard Nigeria’s territorial waters.
In a letter of appreciation to His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, regarding the issuance and presentation of the Certificate of Occupancy for the Navy Forward Operational Base in Abigi, Ogun Waterside Local Government, Daniel highlighted that this action by the governor will facilitate the commencement of construction on the site. He noted that the project has secured funding of up to two billion naira (N2 billion) in the 2024 Appropriation, thanks to the support of President Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Daniel, a former Governor of Ogun State, disclosed that the land was originally donated by the community, through its traditional rulers, for Navy Hydrographic purposes many years ago, but little progress had been made. His role as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Navy has now provided the opportunity to revive the project with an expanded scope.
He also acknowledged the contributions of key individuals whose support has been instrumental. Notably, he recognized His Royal Majesty, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba S.K. Adetona, for his persistent advocacy, which has been crucial to the project. He also expressed gratitude to the traditional rulers in Ogun Waterside, including the Ojotumoro of Abigi and the Osobia of Makun, for their unwavering support.
“Their concerns about potentially losing this project to another state or location have been alleviated,” Daniel said, referencing past anxieties stemming from the loss of the Dangote Refinery to Lagos a few years ago.
Additionally, Daniel commended the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, and his team for their dedication to safeguarding the nation’s maritime assets and their strong partnership on this project.
Finally, Senator Daniel and the people of Ogun East expressed their deep appreciation to President Tinubu for his relentless efforts in securing Nigeria’s territorial waters, emphasizing that this project would not have been possible without his support.
