The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, has paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun.
During the visit, Governor Abiodun commended the Nigerian Navy (NN) for its sustained presence in Ogun State, noting that it has significantly strengthened security by preventing infiltration from the neighbouring Republic of Benin and deterring activities capable of threatening Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The governor disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island as well as the immediate take-off of the long-awaited Olokola Deep Seaport Project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.
He expressed optimism that the projects would boost economic activities and development in the coastal communities.
Governor Abiodun also appreciated the Nigerian Navy for its continuous support to the state’s security architecture, stressing that effective inter-agency collaboration has played a key role in sustaining the relative peace currently enjoyed across Ogun State.
Responding, Rear Admiral Mustapha described Ogun State as critical and strategic to Nigeria’s national security.
He revealed that the existing Naval Outpost at Tongeji Island would be upgraded to a Forward Operating Base in view of the area’s oil potential and strategic importance.
The Naval Commander explained that the visit was aimed at further strengthening cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and the Ogun State Government.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime and land borders with the Republic of Benin and preventing criminal elements from gaining a foothold in the state.