“Security is the core responsibility of government,” the governor said
By Frank Ulom
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Published on July 26, 2026
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3 min read
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating criminality, assuring maritime investors that the state will continue to provide a secure and business-friendly environment for investments.
The governor said his administration has maintained an uncompromising stance against crime through sustained investments in the state’s security architecture, stressing that the protection of lives, property and investments remains a top priority.
Speaking during a visit to the Calabar jetty, where he inspected marine businesses and interacted with stakeholders in the maritime sector, Otu assured investors that his government would continue to support their operations through enhanced security and favourable policies.
“Security is the core responsibility of government,” the governor said.
“This administration has zero tolerance for any form of criminality. That is why we have invested heavily in strengthening security across Cross River.
“You have our full backing, and I assure you that you will never regret investing in the maritime sector of our state.”
Governor Otu noted that his administration recognises the strategic importance of the maritime industry to the state’s economic growth and remains committed to creating the right conditions for businesses to flourish.
He also called on prospective investors to take advantage of the enormous commercial opportunities available within Cross River’s waterways, particularly along the Gulf of Guinea and the Calabar-Cameroon trading corridor.
According to him, the state’s blue economy represents one of Nigeria’s most promising sectors for commerce, transportation, tourism and regional integration.
“We will continue to provide the enabling environment for businesses like yours to thrive,” he added.
The governor reiterated that safeguarding lives, property and investments is one of the cardinal responsibilities of government and pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at expanding economic activities in the maritime sector.
During the visit, Otu toured facilities at the Calabar jetty and inspected ongoing marine business operations. He was accompanied by the Commissioner for Transportation, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham; the Special Adviser on Blue Economy, Ms Melodie Lebo; and other maritime stakeholders.
Reacting to the governor’s visit, marine businessman Dr Thompson Eja thanked Otu for personally inspecting the facility and reassuring investors of the government’s commitment to the sector.
He described the governor’s declaration of zero tolerance for insecurity as a major confidence booster for businesses operating within Cross River’s maritime industry, expressing optimism that the administration’s continued support would encourage more local and foreign investment in the state’s growing blue economy.
