In a significant development, the Ogun State Government has granted the Nigerian Navy 100 hectares of land for the establishment of a Naval Base and Dockyard.
During a courtesy visit by the state governor, Dapo Abiodun, to Naval Headquarters on Friday, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, emphasized the importance of Ogun State as an industrial hub and a key strategic location that necessitates the presence of the Nigerian Navy to safeguard investments.
Ogalla highlighted, “Ogun state plays a crucial role in the nation, and its significance aligns with our operations, which require collaboration with essential stakeholders such as the state. We have taken into consideration the governor’s proposals aimed at enhancing state development efforts to foster economic activities.
“The governor has put forward plans for a molecular LNG and molecular blue seaport, alongside the development of the ‘Tongaji’ Island. These proposed investments are expected to bring in substantial amounts of foreign currency, up to N10 billion, into the Nigerian economy. Security is paramount for the realization of these investments.”
Ogalla assured that the Nigerian Navy high command would take necessary actions to expedite the establishment of the Naval Base in the coming days.
He affirmed, “It is imperative that we address the security aspect. We will make progress in identifying suitable locations for the Naval Base without delay, particularly close to the strategic investments entering Ogun State.
“I appreciate that you have already earmarked 100 hectares of land. I want to assure the governor that we will act promptly to ensure the successful implementation of this initiative.”
Prior to this, Governor Abiodun expressed his commitment to strengthening the collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and the state government.
Presenting the land documents, the governor explained that with Ogun State achieving frontier status and anticipating the commencement of oil exploration, the establishment of the naval base and dockyard was crucial.
Abiodun stated, “Just a few months ago, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited officially declared Ogun State as having attained frontier status.
“These areas are identified as having potential petroleum resources across various locations. This determination was made based on historical data, dating back about 60 years from Shell, indicating past drilling activities around Tongaji Island. We have substantial bitumen deposits as well. With ongoing oil exploration activities, we foresee Ogun State becoming an oil-producing region in the near future. This is why I initiated discussions with the Nigerian Navy team.
“A team was commissioned to assess suitable sites for the establishment of a naval base and dockyard. Apart from the frontier status, another critical factor is the Natural Gas Project, particularly the long-anticipated LNG project.”