In a bid to make the Bakassi Deep Seaport project a reality, the Cross River State government has held a meeting with relevant stakeholders.
The Bakassi Deep Seaport project in the state has received a major boost with multi-stakeholder endorsements from key players like Afrexim Bank, Arise IIP, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Navy, and Customs.
It would be recalled that the deep seaport had secured a $3.5 billion in funding from Afreximbank to begin construction; a project, economic analysts say, will be a game-changer for the region, boosting trade and commerce in the state.
Other prominent stakeholders who pledged their dedication to the project in the presence of the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu and other key officials include the Nigerian Shippers Council, the Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
Following the signing ceremony, Governor Bassey Otu reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the project, which he said, is based on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.
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 economy.
“The realization of this project remains a paramount goal of my administration,” Governor Otu said, emphasizing the significance of transparency and active involvement of stakeholders.
He emphasized that the engagement with stakeholders and the signing of statement of endorsement aim 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 by the various 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 towards fruition.
Viewed as a potential 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,” the Governor assured.
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 some members of the House of Representatives.
The engagement was widely commended as a pivot to advancing the project, with all stakeholders expressing confidence in the state government’s capacity to deliver on its commitments.
