Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has reiterated that Tongeji Island unequivocally belongs to Nigeria, as the Republic of Benin has not raised any contestation over the ownership of the oil-rich enclave, News About Nigeria reports.
Governor Abiodun made this statement during a courtesy visit from Rear Admiral Mustapha Hassan, the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Nigerian Navy, at his office in Abeokuta.
Governor Abiodun emphasised that Tongeji Island and its inhabitants have been integral parts of Ogun State, stressing that there is no affiliation with any other nation.
He clarified, “Tongeji Island is an area that has been under our radar…They are not contesting the island with us.”
Addressing the concerns raised by the Naval Command about Tongeji Island, the governor expressed his commitment to providing essential services for the people in the area.
He highlighted plans to visit the island and assured the immediate commencement of services, including power supply, water, and a Primary Healthcare Centre.
“I raised the matter with the President of Benin Republic the two times I met him to let him know that Tongeji Island is a no-go area for them and he accepted that, contrary to what people are speculating. They are not contesting the island with us.
“I agree that we mark that area with our presence by providing services for the people. Regarding the Jetty that you mentioned, I will tell our Ministry of Works team to go there and take a look so that we can put a cost implication to that.
“You mentioned the issues of power, water supply and Primary Healthcare Centre. Those, we can immediately swing into action when we go there.”
The governor underscored the importance of Naval presence in Ogun Waterside, especially with security challenges in the past, and pointed out that the area is crucial for the state’s seaport.
He commended the efforts of the Nigerian Navy in maintaining security, stating, “The presence of men of the Nigeria Navy would be highly welcome as towns in the area could only be accessible by water.”
Governor Abiodun also revealed plans for Ogun State to become an oil-producing state, with the Ogun State Port project in the Olokola area.
He assured the Nigerian Navy of setting up a committee to collaborate on identifying areas of partnership.
In his remarks, Rear Admiral Mustapha Hassan praised Ogun State for its conducive business environment and called for efforts to transform Tongeji Island into a tourism centre, given its potential.
He appealed to the state government to provide necessary facilities such as jetties, health services, water supply, and electricity for the island’s inhabitants.
