The Cross River State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Chief Victor-Felix Idem, has described the ongoing construction of a modern Police Station, two administrative blocks and staff quarters in Calabar South Local Government Area as a landmark investment that will significantly strengthen security and drive socio-economic development in the area.
Chief Idem made the remark during an inspection of the project located along Okon Edet Ring Road in the Anantigha axis of Calabar South, where he assessed the quality and pace of work.
The Commissioner was received by the Executive Chairman of Calabar South Local Government Council, Hon. Patrick Okon Achibong, alongside members of the Council’s management team, who conducted him round the facility.
Expressing satisfaction with the progress of work, Idem commended the Council Chairman for initiating what he described as one of the most remarkable local government-driven security infrastructure projects in Cross River State.
He noted that the establishment of a standard Police Station in the Anantigha community would strengthen the operational capacity of security agencies and help combat criminality, youth restiveness, cultism and other social vices that have long challenged the area.
According to the Commissioner, security remains the foundation of sustainable development, stressing that meaningful economic growth and social progress can only thrive in a peaceful and secure environment.
He conveyed the support of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu for initiatives that enhance the security of lives and property, describing the Governor as a leader committed to encouraging innovative, people-centred projects that align with his administration’s People First agenda.
Chief Idem assured the Council of the Ministry’s continued guidance and institutional support to ensure the successful completion of the project in line with government standards and policies.
Responding, the Executive Chairman of Calabar South Local Government Council, Hon. Patrick Okon Achibong, thanked the Commissioner for the inspection visit and the Ministry’s sustained oversight and support.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to executing projects that directly address the needs of residents, particularly in the areas of security, public safety and community development.
Achibong said the Police Station project underscores the Council’s resolve to provide critical infrastructure that will enhance security, protect lives and property, and create an enabling environment for business and investment to flourish.
The inspection ended with an interactive session between the Commissioner, the Council Chairman and members of the management team, during which they discussed strategies for strengthening local governance and sustaining impactful development projects across the local government.
By Mary Okon
