The Nigerian Navy has unveiled plans to establish a naval base in Bakassi to strengthen maritime security and safeguard the Bakassi Deep Seaport project, a critical hub for the nation’s economic growth.
Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, disclosed this during Cross River State Governor Mr. Bassey Otu’s visit to the Naval Headquarters in Abuja on Monday.
Ogalla emphasized the strategic importance of Calabar and Bakassi as critical naval bases for the nation’s defense and maritime operations especially regarding the bakassi deep seaport
He commended the Cross River State government’s support for the Nigerian Navy and reaffirmed the service’s commitment to collaborating with the state government to ensure the safety and growth of the region’s maritime infrastructure.
“I am aware of the Navy’s plan to establish a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in this area. We are now going to revisit this plan, not only for security purposes but also for hydrographic surveys that will help chart routes for larger vessels. We will collaborate with the Office of Hydrography and the Surveyor General’s office to ensure this is accomplished in the shortest possible time,” the CNS said.
Assuring the governor of the Navy’s commitment to the security of the state, the Naval boss said “We appreciate the hospitality of the people of Cross River and reaffirm our commitment to collaborating with the state government and other stakeholders to ensure the safety and growth of the region’s maritime infrastructure.”
He said this establishment in Bakassi will enhance the security at the deep-sea port and ensure the safe navigation of vessels in the area.
Earlier, in his address, the Cross River State Governor Senator Prince Bassey Otu, expressed gratitude for the Navy’s support, highlighting the importance of securing the Bakassi region. “We recognize the immense abilities of the Nigerian Navy and the collaboration that has been possible so far. I want to express my gratitude for your support, which is crucial not only for Cross River State but for the entire country,” he said.
Otu emphasized the importance of the projects in driving economic growth and development in the state, while highlighting the potential for attracting foreign investment and stimulating economic growth.
“The Navy’s involvement in securing these areas and maintaining peace is vital for our future,” Governor Otu added. “Ensuring that the islands in the Bakassi region remain part of the national framework is a priority for us.”
His words: “Regarding the Bakassi issue, although it has not been fully resolved, we are not focusing on that aspect at the moment. Instead, we are concentrating on the areas that were apportioned to Nigeria. As you know, Bakassi was divided into five parts, with three allocated to Nigeria and two to Cameroon. In the two areas under Cameroonian control, their security forces are already present. However, the Nigerian-controlled areas have not been properly secured, and this is our primary concern.
“That is why we need the presence of the Nigerian Navy. With the caliber of personnel we have, we are confident that this area can be fully secured with their presence, even before the full operation of the project.
“Additionally, this project will help decongest the Apapa seaport. We are also looking at boosting trade in this area, aligning with the Renewed Hope agenda to expand Nigeria’s economy through economic growth and diversification,” the Governor said.
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