Matawalle lauds Gov Abiodun for donating land to Nigerian Navy
By IBRAHIM KANOMA
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has expressed profound appreciation to the Executive Governor of Ogun State, Prince Adedapo Abiodun, for the recent generous donation of 100,000 hectares of land to the Nigerian Navy.
Henshaw Ogubike, Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, made this known in a statement issued in Abuja dated 13th August, 2024 and copy of which was sent to The DEFENDER on Tuesday.
“This land, situated within the Olokola Free Trade Zone in Ogun State along the Bight of Benin, will serve as a Forward Operating Base (FOB) for the Navy, significantly enhancing its operational capabilities in the region,” Ogubike said.
Dr. Matawalle appreciated Governor Abiodun for what he described as his unwavering support to the Nigerian Armed Forces, noting that the donation reflected a deep commitment to the security and development of Nigeria.
He emphasised that the gesture was not only a strategic boost to the Nigerian Navy but also a crucial step towards fortifying national security infrastructure in the South-West region.
The Minister, who was colleague of Dapo Abiodun on the Nigeria Governors’ Forum as Governor of Zamfara State until May 29, 2023, called on other state governments across the country to emulate the laudable example set by the Ogun State governor.
He urged them to collaborate with and support the Armed Forces in their ongoing efforts to combat insecurity, ensuring Nigeria remains a safe and secure nation for all its citizens.
Dr. Matawalle reiterated the Federal Government’s dedication to working with State Governments and other stakeholders to enhance the Armed Forces’ effectiveness in maintaining peace and security across the country.
