By Godwin Otang
The Cross River State Government has joined the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and other partners to Commission a brand new boat, MF Michael Eja-iya in Calabar on Tuesday.
The new boat MF Michael Eja-iya is an additional boat acquired by a private investor, the SeaExpress Transit, operating in Calabar to enhance transportation between Cross River and Akwa Ibom State.
Addressing Business partners, stakeholders, and SeaExpress Management at the commissioning, the State Governor Senator Bassey Otu, represented by this deputy, Rt. Honorable Peter Odey said his administration is not taking the Maritime and blue economy for granted: “The blue economy is one of which we as a government are not taking for granted in Cross River State. It’s not only going to be a gateway to the Gulf of Guinea, but it’s also going to improve the Cross River State Economy.
“We will ensure to protect it and ensure that tour businesses in Cross River State will thrive. Cross River State is a safe place to do business, come to Cross River, and your business and investments will be protected.”
Earlier, Mr. Thompson Eja, the Chairman of SeaExpress Transit said “With this, I would like to say to all my friends at home and abroad that Cross River State is back. I am happy I tried it, because, in two and a half years, we have over 40 employees. That’s not to say that there haven’t been challenges, there will always be challenges in trying to build businesses, but if you stay the course and keep focus, you will succeed.”
He assured of creating at least two thousand jobs in the maritime sector in the State and beyond in the next six years.
In his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Transport, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham said, “Today, desire is having a date with opportunity. I am glad that this bold step is not taken by a foreigner but by a great Cross Riverian. The provision of this great infrastructure is going to open up the economy of Cross River State.”
Meanwhile, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Area Manager, Engineer Stanley Onuoha, lauded the initiative. He urged the State government to provide security and tax incentives to aid the smooth running of SeaExpress Transit, to boost the State economy.
The commissioning was witnessed by about 15 commissioners from Cross River, service Commanders from the security agencies; top government functionaries, and private business individuals and organizations.
The highlight of the event was at least a 15-minute sail by the Deputy Governor and others on the new MF Michael Eja-iya boat.
