The Naval Chief disclosed this when he received the Governor of Ogun State Dapo Abiodun on a courtesy visit at Naval Headquarters, In Abuja, the nation’s capital.
According to him, Ogun, being an industrial hub and strategic state, required the presence of the Nigerian Navy to secure investments.
He assured him that the Nigerian Navy high command will do what is necessary to ensure the Base comes alive in the next few days.
He urged the Governor to provide the Service with the Certificate of Occupancy in order for the team to return to site and commence preparations.
“Ogun State is strategic in the nation and it is strategic with us in our activities which cannot be effectively done with the collaboration of key stakeholders like the state. We listen to the proposal the governor has towards developing states all geared towards promoting economic activities”, he said.
He proposed molecular LNG and molecular blue seaport and also the development of the ‘Tongaji’ Island, these are investments that will attract a number of US dollars of up to N10bn into the Nigerian economy. These investments can’t be without being provided security.
He said “Our duty is to make sure we fulfil this aspect which is provision of security. We’ll move without waiting to establish these facilities, we make steps towards identifying suitable locations for this Naval Base. The committee has done a good job choosing the location which is close to these strategic investments that are coming into Ogun State.
“I’m glad that you have already allocated 100 hectares of land. I want to assure the governor that we’ll do what is necessary as speedily as possible to make sure that this objective is actualised.”
The Governor presented documents allocating 100 hectares of land to the Navy for the establishment of a Naval Base.
Earlier, Governor Adedapo Abiodun said that “he was at the Naval Headquarters to deepen collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and the Ogun State government”.
The Governor highlighted the strategic importance of Ogun State to the nation and the Navy, citing its proximity to Lagos, industrial and educational hubs, and abundant natural resources.
He emphasised the state’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for public-private partnerships and ensuring good governance to attract investors.
The proposed Naval Dockyard and Base will be located in Olosumeta, with the state government providing 100 acres of land.
The project aims to enhance security, promote economic growth, and create opportunities for the citizens.
Governor Abiodun praised the Nigerian Navy’s proactive approach, citing the visit of a team to the site and the acquisition of land for the project.
He pledged the state’s support to ensure the successful establishment of the base and dockyard.
For his part, the Chief of Naval Staff commended the Governor’s efforts, emphasising the Navy’s commitment to providing security for investors and contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
