Former Ogun State Governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of a naval base and dockyard in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, describing it as a transformative project that will strengthen national security and unlock massive economic opportunities for the state.
Daniel, who chairs the Senate Committee on Navy, said the project’s approval, alongside the renewed push to revive the Olokola Deep-Seaport, signals a new dawn for Ogun Waterside and the South-West corridor. He spoke on Sunday during the Bola Ahmed Tinubu–Otunba Gbenga Daniel (BATOGD) Mid-Term Community Assessment and Review Tour held in Abigi, aimed at evaluating progress and engaging constituents.
The senator commended President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and commitment to projects that empower citizens and open up communities. He noted that the new Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway route passing through the local government had already begun transforming the area’s development outlook.
“The naval base and dockyard at Ode-Omi will boost local commerce, create jobs, and enhance security. It’s a testament to President Tinubu’s resolve to deliver meaningful development where it’s needed most,” Daniel said.
Recalling his time as governor, Daniel explained that the land allocated for the naval facility had been untouched for decades, adding that the breakthrough came through “deliberate strategic efforts” supported by the President and the Navy. He also highlighted plans to reactivate the Gateway Industrial and Petro-Gas Institute (GIPI) in Ode-Omi, originally established during his tenure to train technicians for the abandoned refinery and seaport projects.
“Whatever the state government is unable to do, we’ll push for at the federal level,” he assured. “Just as the Federal Government took over and stabilized Tai Solarin University of Education, we are optimistic GIPI will be revived to train our youths for future opportunities.”
The senator revealed that the naval base project would be executed in phases, beginning with residential quarters, an administrative complex, perimeter fencing, and security infrastructure, followed by the establishment of a naval secondary school and naval hospital to serve personnel and host communities.
Daniel stressed that the people of Ogun State remain deeply grateful to President Tinubu for his continued support and will, in his words, “reciprocate with overwhelming votes in 2027.” He described the President as a leader with “genuine intentions for Nigerians,” adding that sustaining his reforms would further consolidate gains across the country.
By Folake Sokoya
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