In a bid to boost economy along coastal areas and other parts of Cross River State, especially Bakassi Peninsula and environs, the state governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, in Abuja.
A statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Nsa Gill, said the meeting focused on strengthening collaboration on security and economic advancement along the coastlines of the proposed Bakassi Deep Seaport in Cross River State.
Speaking, the governor noted that the purpose of his visit was to solidify the existing relationship between the state government and the naval authority.
Otu advocated for an enhanced naval presence in the state, with an operational base along the maritime border between Nigeria and Cameroon in Bakassi area— an area where the Cameroonian authorities maintain security while the Nigerian side remains under-protected.
He underscored the significance of obtaining naval assistance to protect coastal investments, port development, safeguard national oil assets and platforms within the state.
The governor stressed the importance of cooperation to generate employment opportunities, stimulate economic growth, ensure regional stability in Bakassi coastal area, and foster collaboration with Cameroon to address mutual security challenges crucial for realising the proposed Bakassi Deep Seaport.
Responding, Ogalla pledged navy’s cooperation with the Cross River State government, to initiate bathymetric surveys of the new Bakassi Islands within Nigeria’s territory and drive economic prosperity as requested by the governor.
He expressed gratitude to the governor for the visit, and reiterated navy’s dedication to ensuring a robust presence, especially along the coastal areas, border regions, and the vicinity of the proposed Bakassi Deep Seaport.
Meanwhile, the Cross River Sate Government has clarified that the Bathymetric survey provides precise data that enhances navigation and dredging operations, while also supporting various land projects.
It further explained that bathymetric surveys are valuable for dock and harbour engineering, flood management and prevention, river maintenance, irrigation and water power.
