Follow Us on Google
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has assured local and foreign investors that the state’s waterways are safe for business, pledging sustained investment in security and infrastructure to unlock the full potential of the state’s blue economy.
Otu gave the assurance during an inspection of the Calabar Marina Business Hub, where he toured the newly introduced MV-Eja, a ferry operated by SeaExpress Transit on the Calabar-Cameroon commercial route.
The governor, accompanied by the Commissioner for Transportation, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham, the Special Adviser on Blue Economy, Ms. Melodie Lebo, and other maritime stakeholders, described the investment as a strong vote of confidence in Cross River’s economic prospects and maritime sector.
He said the state’s strategic coastal location and vast maritime resources offer enormous opportunities for trade, tourism, transportation and regional integration, adding that his administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
Commending the promoters of the ferry service for choosing Cross River as their investment destination, Otu assured them of the state’s full support in protecting the investment and ensuring its long-term success.
“We are proud of this investment, coming down from the United States just to invest in your motherland,” the governor said.
“You could have chosen anywhere else, so on that note, we owe you all the necessary support as a people and as a government to ensure that this huge investment is not in vain. We will continue to provide the enabling environment for businesses like yours to thrive.”
The governor also reiterated his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property and investments, stressing that security remains the foundation for sustainable economic growth.
According to him, the state government has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to criminality and has continued to strengthen its security architecture to guarantee the safety of residents and investors.
Other News
“Security is the core responsibility of government,” he stated. “This administration has zero tolerance for any form of criminality. That is why we have invested heavily in strengthening security across Cross River. You have our full backing, and I assure you that you will never regret investing in the maritime sector of our state.”
Otu used the occasion to invite more investors to explore opportunities in Cross River’s expanding blue economy, particularly along the Gulf of Guinea and the Calabar-Cameroon trading corridor, which he described as one of the state’s most strategic economic assets.
He said the government was committed to unlocking the commercial potential of the waterways through policies that encourage private sector participation and enhance regional trade.
Responding, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SeaExpress Transit, Dr. Thompson Eja, thanked the governor for personally inspecting the facility and reassuring investors of the state’s commitment to protecting investments.
He described Otu’s firm stance on security as a major confidence booster for businesses operating in the maritime industry.
“We are deeply encouraged by Your Excellency’s visit and your unequivocal commitment to securing investments. We look forward to partnering closely with the Cross River State Government to enhance service delivery and further expand maritime transportation in the region,” Eja said.
The visit concluded with the presentation of a commemorative plaque to Governor Otu in recognition of his administration’s support for the maritime sector and his visit aboard the MV-Eja.
The ceremony highlighted the growing collaboration between the Cross River State Government and private investors as the state intensifies efforts to position itself as a leading hub for maritime commerce and the blue economy in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.
