Gov. Bassey Otu (6th L), his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey (5th L) and other top officials at the ceremony.
By Anietie Akpan
In a significant effort to advance the Bakassi Deep Seaport project in Cross River State, essential stakeholders have formally endorsed their commitment to supporting and overseeing the realization of the project.
Among the prominent stakeholders who pledged their dedication to the project in the presence of the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu are, Africa Export Import Bank (Afrexim), Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP), Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Customs, Nigerian Shippers Council, the Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, and leaders of the local community.
Following the signing ceremony, Governor Otu in a press release by his Chief Press Secretary, Comrade Nsa Gill, on Thursday, reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the project, which is based on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.
Otu described the Bakassi Deep Seaport as a “bold and courageous statement of collective aspiration” for the people of Cross River, underscoring its pivotal role in bolstering the state’s economic prosperity.
“The realization of this project remains a paramount goal of my administration,” Otu declared, emphasizing the significance of transparency and active involvement of stakeholders.
He emphasized that the engagement with stakeholders and the endorsement signing ceremony aimed to facilitate dialogue among key entities such as regulators, security agencies, investors, community leaders, and civil society organizations.
Notable highlight of the event was the signing of the Statement of Endorsement, individually by the stakeholders and officially recognizing them as Bakassi Deep Seaport Brand Ambassadors, thereby solidifying their united backing for the project.
Governor Otu expressed confidence that the collaboration with these crucial stakeholders would eliminate any hindrances and propel the project towards fruition.
Viewed as a potential transformative initiative for the State, the Bakassi Deep Seaport is anticipated to substantially enhance trade and economic activities in the region, generating employment opportunities and fostering new business prospects.
“We are prepared to collaborate with all stakeholders to actualize this project. You can rely on my steadfast support,” the Governor assured.
The Obong of Calabar, represented at the event by Etubom Architect Bassey Eyo Ndem, also tacitly endorsed the project.
Words of support were conveyed by the Vice President of Afrexim Bank, Mr. Zitto Alfayo; the Vice President of ARISE IIP, Mr. Suren Abeywickrema; the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, on behalf of the Minister; the Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Dr. Jobson Ewalefoh; representatives of the Chief of Naval Staff; and the representative of the Comptroller General of Customs, among others.
The engagement was widely commended as a pivotal stride in advancing the project, with all stakeholders expressing confidence in the state government’s capacity to deliver on its commitments.
Other notable dignitaries at the event include the State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, Senators representing Cross River South and Central Senatorial Districts, as well as some members of the House of Representatives.
