In a significant step toward enhancing grassroots security, Cross River State Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu, has flagged off the construction of a new police station in Anantigha, Calabar South Local Government Area. The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Tuesday, was performed on the governor’s behalf by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Ironbar described the project as a milestone for community policing and a testament to the administration’s commitment to security and infrastructure development.
“This project is dear to the governor because it directly addresses the safety of lives and property,” he said. “Security is everyone’s responsibility. We urge the youth of Anantigha to remain disciplined, support law enforcement, and take ownership of this initiative.”
The Chief of Staff also commended the cooperation of traditional institutions, youth leaders, and stakeholders in the area, noting that their unity made the project possible under Governor Otu’s performance-driven agenda.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of Calabar South Local Government, Hon. Patrick Archibong, described the police station as the fulfillment of a long-standing community aspiration. He recalled how, for over a decade, residents had relied on makeshift container outposts to combat rising incidents of theft and insecurity.
“This is a dream come true,” Archibong said. “I sincerely hope this project is completed and becomes operational within the life of this administration. It will restore public confidence and greatly improve security.”
Prominent academic and community leader, Prof. Offiong Effangha, who also spoke at the event, highlighted Anantigha’s strategic importance as the headquarters of the Efut nation. He praised the state and local governments for the initiative, emphasizing that the police station would not only enhance security but also create employment opportunities.
“This is a federal project, and our youth will not be left behind,” Prof. Effangha assured. “We will work with the local authorities to ensure this project is delivered successfully.”
In a solemn and symbolic gesture, the Prelate and Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, His Eminence Most Reverend (Prof.) Ekpenyong Akpanika, led a special prayer for the speedy completion of the project. He also prayed for lasting peace and prosperity in Calabar South and Cross River State as a whole, invoking divine guidance over the community’s development efforts.
The event was marked by enthusiastic support from community members, who lauded Governor Otu’s leadership and the local council for initiating the project. Speakers at the event called for continued cooperation, discipline, and community engagement to ensure the timely completion and sustainability of the facility.
©️ Patrick Asuquo, SA Media to the Chief of Staff
