By Onwa Ekor
Cross River governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Nigerian Navy in enhancing maritime security and safeguarding the state’s coastal assets.
Otu stated this, Tuesday, when he received the new Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie, who paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Calabar.
The governor who described the visit as a mark of seriousness and purpose, noted that the promptness of the FOC’s engagement with the state government was a show of proactiveness.
“I want to thank you very much for your seriousness of purpose as I thought it would take some time before we would see your face, but the notice of your visit came immediately, and we suspended everything to receive you,” Otu said, maintaining that “it shows your commitment and the fact that you are ready for action.”
The governor lauded the Navy for its long-standing cooperation with the state, particularly in ensuring safety across the creeks and waterways, affirming that the Eastern Naval Command has been a dependable partner in maintaining peace and curbing maritime crimes within the state’s coastal corridor.
“Security has remained one of our top priorities, we have been working very well with the Command to sustain peace and stability.
“The Nigerian Navy has a deep understanding of this terrain, its marine ecology, creeks, and waterways, and that makes your presence even more strategic,” he averred.
The governor also applauded Naval officers in the state for serving with distinction, adding that their dedication reflects the cordial relationship between the state and the Navy.
Earlier, Okehie expressed appreciation to the governor for the warm reception, describing his posting to Calabar as homecoming, having previously served in the state at different times.
“My assumption of duty as the FOC, Eastern Naval Command is truly a homecoming as I had the privilege of serving here as Commander, NNS Centenary between 2014 and 2016, and later as Commander, NNS Victory from 2021 to 2022.
“These experiences deepened my appreciation of the cordial hospitality of the people of Cross River and the enduring cooperation between the state government and the Navy,” Okehie explained.
He assured that the Command under his leadership would continue to work closely with the Cross River government to ensure maritime security, promote the blue economy, and strengthen civil-military cooperation.
“In line with the mission of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas , the Eastern Naval Command will deploy a highly professional and motivated force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests.
“We shall work with your government to enhance maritime security, support blue economy initiatives, and deepen cooperation for the peace and prosperity of our state and nation,” the new FOC assured.
He further pledged the Navy’s continued partnership in the state’s drive for peace, sustainable development, and the protection of national sovereignty, adding that “in safeguarding the maritime domain, we preserve also the nation’s peace and prosperity.”
