By Onwa Ekor
Cross River governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening security while deepening strategic partnerships with the Navy.
Welcoming the 25th Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, in Calabar, Otu described the visit as homecoming since Abbas previously served in the state and was returning at the peak of his distinguished naval career.
The governor stressed the need for sustained collaboration between the State and the Nigerian Navy, maintaining that Cross River strategic coastal location makes security cooperation vital to protecting lives, investments and national assets.
He assured the Naval Chief of the state government’s readiness to complement federal security efforts through coordinated action, improved maritime infrastructure and the deployment of state resources where necessary.
Earlier, Abbas thanked Otu for cutting short his official trip to receive him and his delegation, commending the governor’s visionary and people-centred leadership.
The Naval Chief explained that the visit was part of his routine assessment of operational readiness and personnel welfare since assuming office on October 30, 2025.
He disclosed that Calabar was deliberately chosen as his first point of call, citing his strong professional attachment to the state, where he once served as a junior officer and commanded NNS Victory.
Abbas disclosed plans to deploy additional naval platforms to the Eastern maritime flank in response to emerging security concerns in the region.
Identifying severe coastal erosion around naval jetties and waterfront facilities as a major challenge, he appealed to the state government for support in shoreline protection to accommodate additional vessels.
The Naval Chief further applauded the visible developmental strides in the state, describing them as evidence of purposeful and impactful governance under Governor Otu.
