Key stakeholders have formally expressed their commitment to supporting and overseeing the Bakassi Deep Seaport project in Cross River State.
Among those who pledged their dedication during the signing ceremony on Thursday in Calabar, the state capital, were representatives from the Africa Export-Import Bank, Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms, and the Nigeria Port Authority, among others.
Governor Bassey Otu reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the project, which will be executed through a Public-Private Partnership model.
He described the Bakassi Deep Seaport as a bold and courageous statement of collective aspiration for the people of Cross River, emphasizing its critical role in enhancing the state’s economic prosperity.
“The realization of this project remains a paramount goal of my administration,” Otu stated, highlighting the importance of transparency and the active involvement of stakeholders.
He noted that the engagement and endorsement ceremony aimed to foster dialogue among key entities, including regulators, security agencies, and investors.
A significant moment of the event was the signing of the Statement of Endorsement, where stakeholders were officially recognized as Bakassi Deep Seaport Brand Ambassadors, solidifying their collective support for the initiative.
The governor expressed confidence that collaboration with these essential stakeholders would help overcome any obstacles and drive the project to completion.
The seaport is viewed as a potentially transformative initiative for the state, expected to significantly boost trade and economic activities in the region, while creating job 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 attendees.
The Obong of Calabar, represented by Bassey Ndem, also endorsed the project, contributing to the overall positive sentiment surrounding the engagement. Stakeholders widely commended the event as a crucial step forward, expressing confidence in the state government’s ability to fulfill its commitments.
