Senator Bassey Otu, the governor of Cross River State, has reiterated his administration’s dedication to bolstering cooperation with the Nigerian Navy in order to improve marine security and protect the state’s coastal resources.
This was said by Governor Otu on Tuesday during a courtesy visit at Government House in Calabar with Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie, the new Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of Eastern Naval Command.
The governor called the visit “a mark of seriousness and purpose,” pointing out that the FOC’s quick interaction with the state government shows that he is prepared to take action.
Otu remarked, “I want to thank you very much for your seriousness of purpose.” “I had anticipated seeing your face for a while, but the news of your coming arrived right away, and we put everything on hold to welcome you. That demonstrates your dedication and readiness to take action.
Governor Otu praised the Navy for its longstanding collaboration with the state, especially in maintaining river and creek safety. In the state’s coastal corridor, he recognized that the Eastern Naval Command has been a reliable ally in preserving peace and reducing maritime crimes.
He declared, “Security has remained one of our top priorities.” “Our collaboration with the Command to maintain peace and stability has been excellent. Your presence is made even more important by the Nigerian Navy’s profound knowledge of this area, its creeks, waterways, and marine life.
The governor also expressed gratitude to the Cross River Naval officers who continue to serve with distinction, saying that their commitment demonstrates the friendly ties between the state and the Navy.
Earlier in his speech, Rear Admiral Okehie thanked the governor for the cordial welcome and referred to his assignment to Calabar as “a homecoming,” having previously served in the state at various points.
Okehie remarked, “My assumption of duty as the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command is truly a homecoming.” “I had the honor of serving here from 2014 to 2016 as Commander, NNS Centenary, then from 2021 to 2022 as Commander, NNS Victory. My admiration for the friendly hospitality of the residents of Cross River and the ongoing collaboration between the state administration and the Navy has grown as a result of these encounters.
In order to maintain marine security, advance the blue economy, and enhance civil-military collaboration, he promised that the Command, led by him, would continue to collaborate closely with the Cross River State government.
“The Eastern Naval Command will deploy a highly professional and motivated force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests in accordance with the mission of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas,” Okehie said. “We will collaborate with your government to strengthen cooperation for the peace and prosperity of our state and country, support blue economy initiatives, and improve maritime security.”
“In safeguarding the maritime domain, we preserve also the nation’s peace and prosperity,” he added, pledging the Navy’s ongoing support in the state’s efforts to promote peace, sustainable development, and the defense of national sovereignty.
