By Akpan Udo-Inyang
CALABAR
The Calabar-Cameroon commercial route, now operates with a new Ferry, the MV-Eja, owned by Sea Express Transit Investment and introduced at the Calabar Marina Business Resort, Cross River State.
The new investment, has the full support of the Cross River State government in safeguarding it and providing the necessary backing to ensure its success.
Speaking during the inspection of the ferry at the Marina business resort, Governor Bassey Otu, remarked that “We are proud of this investment, coming down from the United States just to invest in Cross River. ”
Otu, who lauded the promoters of the project for choosing Cross River as their investment destination despite having opportunities elsewhere across the globe, declared:
“You could have chosen anywhere else, so on that note, we owe you all the necessary support as a people and as a government to ensure that this huge investment is not in vain. We will continue to provide the enabling environment for businesses like yours to thrive.”
Addressing concerns over maritime safety, Governor Otu reiterated that the protection of lives, property and investments remains one of the cardinal responsibilities of government stressing that his administration has demonstrated an uncompromising stance against criminality through sustained investments in security architecture across the state.
“Security is the core responsibility of government,” he stated. “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”the governor also said.
Otu, was delighted at the scale and quality of the investment, describing it as a clear demonstration of growing investor confidence in Cross River State, noting that the state’s strategic location and expanding blue economy present enormous opportunities for economic growth and regional trade.
The governor further seized the opportunity to invite prospective investors to take advantage of the vast commercial opportunities embedded in Cross River’s expansive waterways within the Gulf of Guinea, particularly the Calabar-Cameroon trading corridor.
According to him, the state’s blue economy remains one of the most promising frontiers for commerce, transportation, tourism and regional integration, with government fully committed to unlocking its immense potential.
Responding on behalf of SeaExpress Transit, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company, Dr. Thompson Eja, appreciated Governor Otu for personally visiting the facility and reassuring investors of government support.
He commended the governor’s firm declaration of zero tolerance for insecurity, describing it as a confidence booster for businesses operating within the maritime sector.
“We are deeply encouraged by Your Excellency’s visit and your unequivocal commitment to securing investments. We look forward to partnering closely with the Cross River State Government to enhance service delivery and further expand maritime transportation in the region,” Eja added.