Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East in the National Assembly, has stated that the establishment of a naval base and dockyard by the Federal Government in Ode-Omi, Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, will significantly boost the local economy through job creation and infrastructure development, while also enhancing national security.
Daniel revealed that although the Nigerian Navy had been allocated land for the base more than 50 years ago, the project only received presidential approval following his election as senator and appointment as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Navy.
Speaking during the Bola Ahmed Tinubu–Otunba Gbenga Daniel (BATOGD) Mid-term Community Assessment and Review Tour held in Abigi, the senator commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting approval for the establishment of the military facility. The tour was organized to assess ongoing projects, engage with constituents, and evaluate developmental progress across the area.
Daniel expressed optimism that the Federal Government would provide the necessary funding to ensure the full realization of the project, describing it as a long-awaited opportunity for Ogun Waterside.
“I believe God loves this local government; that’s why He has given us another chance to actualize some of our lofty dreams. The land for this base was allocated to the Navy over 50 years ago, but nothing happened until now. Through deliberate and strategic efforts, we secured the President’s approval for the project. We must thank our President and Commander-in-Chief, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his support,” Daniel said.
The former Ogun State governor recalled that his administration had earlier proposed the establishment of a refinery project in the area, which led to the creation of the Gateway Industrial and Petro-Gas Institute (GIPI) in Ode-Omi, intended to train manpower for the refinery and the proposed deep seaport. He promised to work towards reviving GIPI with federal support, noting that the Federal Government had previously demonstrated such intervention by taking over and funding the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED).
Explaining the scope of the naval base project, Daniel said it would be developed in phases:
- Phase One – construction of accommodation for officers, an administrative building, perimeter fencing, and security installations.
- Phase Two – establishment of a naval secondary school.
- Phase Three – development of a naval hospital.
He emphasized that the presence of the naval base would transform the area into a “naval city,” guaranteeing improved security and spurring economic growth.
Daniel also applauded President Tinubu for supporting the revival of the Olokola Deep Seaport Project, which he said would further boost Ogun State’s economy. He noted that the new Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway route alignment was already opening up the local government area, paving the way for greater development.
The senator praised the President’s commitment to empowering Nigerians through strategic infrastructure and economic initiatives, assuring that the people of Ogun State remain grateful for his numerous interventions.
He concluded by saying that residents would reciprocate the President’s goodwill with their support and votes in the 2027 general elections, adding that “President Tinubu means well for Nigeria, and every patriotic citizen should stand behind his administration.”