By Anita Otu
To advance the Bakassi Deep Seaport project in Cross River State, key stakeholders have formally endorsed their commitment to supporting and overseeing the realization of the project.
Among the prominent stakeholders who pledged their dedication to the project in the presence of the Governor of Cross River State and other key officials are representatives from Africa Export-Import Bank (Afrexim), Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP), Nigeria Port Authority (NPA), the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Customs, the Nigerian Shippers Council, the Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, and leaders of the local community.
Following the signing ceremony, Governor Senator Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the project, which is based on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.
Governor Otu described the Bakassi Deep Seaport as a “bold and courageous statement of collective aspiration” for the people of Cross River, underscoring its pivotal role in bolstering the state’s economic prosperity.
“The realization of this project remains a paramount goal of my administration,” Governor Otu declared, emphasizing the significance of transparency and active involvement of stakeholders.
He emphasized that the engagement with stakeholders and the endorsement signing ceremony aimed to facilitate dialogue among key entities such as regulators, security agencies, investors, community leaders, and civil society organizations.
A notable highlight of the event was the signing of the Statement of endorsement, individually, by the stakeholders and officially recognizing them as Bakassi Deep Seaport Brand Ambassadors, thereby solidifying their united backing for the project.
Governor Otu expressed confidence that the collaboration with these crucial stakeholders would eliminate any hindrances and propel the project toward fruition.
Viewed as a potentially transformative initiative for Cross River State, the Bakassi Deep Seaport is anticipated to substantially enhance trade and economic activities in the region, generating employment opportunities and fostering new business prospects.
“We are prepared to collaborate with all stakeholders to actualize this project. You can rely on my steadfast support,” Governor Otu’s Chief Press Secretary Gill Nsa, quoted him as saying.
The Obong of Calabar, represented at the event by Etubom Architect Bassey Eyo Ndem, also tacitly endorsed the project.
Words of support were conveyed by the Vice President of AfreximBank, Mr. Zitto Alfayo; the Vice President of ARISE IIP, Mr. Suren Abeywickrema; the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, on behalf of the Minister; the Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Dr. Jobson Ewalefoh; representatives of the Chief of Naval Staff; and the representative of the Comptroller General of Customs, among others.
Other notable dignitaries at the event include the State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, Senators representing Cross River South and Central senatorial Districts, as well as some members of the House of Representatives.
The engagement was widely commended as a pivotal stride in advancing the project, with all stakeholders expressing confidence in the state government’s capacity to deliver on its commitments.
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