Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has declared the state’s waterways safe for investment, reaffirming his administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives, property, and maritime investments while positioning Cross River as a leading destination for the blue economy.
Governor Otu made the declaration on Saturday during an inspection visit to the Calabar Marina Business Hub, where he toured the newly introduced MV-Eja, a ferry owned by SeaExpress Transit, now operating on the Calabar-Cameroon commercial route.
Accompanied by the Commissioner for Transportation, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham, the Special Adviser on Blue Economy, Ms. Melodie Lebo, and other maritime stakeholders, the Governor described the investment as a strong vote of confidence in Cross River State and its growing maritime economy.
He commended the promoters of SeaExpress Transit for choosing Cross River as their investment destination despite having opportunities elsewhere around the world, assuring them that his administration would continue to provide the support required for the business to thrive.
“We are proud of this investment, coming down from the United States just to invest in your motherland. 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 said.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to maritime security, Governor Otu said government had made significant investments in strengthening the state’s security architecture to guarantee the safety of investors and residents alike.
“Security is the core responsibility of government. 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,” he stated.
The Governor also called on local and international investors to take advantage of the immense opportunities available within Cross River’s expansive waterways and the Gulf of Guinea, particularly along the Calabar-Cameroon trading corridor.
According to him, the state’s blue economy holds enormous potential for commerce, transportation, tourism, and regional integration, with his administration fully committed to unlocking its vast economic benefits through strategic partnerships and investor-friendly policies.
Responding, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SeaExpress Transit, Dr. Thompson Eja, expressed appreciation to Governor Otu for personally visiting the facility and reassuring investors of government support.
“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 culminated in the presentation of a commemorative plaque of honour to Governor Otu by Dr. Eja in recognition of his administration’s support for the maritime industry and for boarding the MV-Eja.
By Daniel Bebia
