In a bid to breathe new life into the dormant Calabar Port, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has intensified efforts, urging swift dredging operations during a recent meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Ports and Harbours.
This move signals a significant step towards revitalizing the port’s commercial viability after decades of neglect.
After languishing in a state of disuse for over twenty-five years, the Calabar Port’s inability to accommodate modern vessels has dealt a severe blow to the region’s economic fortunes.
Governor Otu’s impassioned plea underscores the urgent need for action to overcome the port’s longstanding challenges and unlock its immense potentials.
During discussions with the House of representatives Committee led by its Chairman Nnolim Nnaji who led members on a courtesy call on the governor while on an inspection visit of the port in the state, Governor Otu emphasized the critical role of the Calabar Port in driving economic growth and jobs creation in Cross River State.
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He urged the Committee to prioritize dredging and maintenance efforts, stressing the port’s strategic importance within the national maritime infrastructure framework.
Echoing Governor Otu’s sentiments, Chairman Nnolim Nnaji reiterated the Committee’s unwavering commitment to reviving the Calabar Port.
He emphasized the need for collaboration between government stakeholders at both the federal and state levels to expedite the rehabilitation process, and ensure the port’s seamless integration into the national maritime network.
As the momentum builds for the Calabar Port revival, Governor Otu’s called for urgent dredging serves as a rallying cry for stakeholders committed to unlocking the port’s untapped potential.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
