By Abasi Ita
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River state has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening maritime security through strategic collaboration with the Amphibious Training School of the Nigerian Navy in Calabar.
Otu gave the assurance when he received the Commandant of the Amphibious Training School and his team during a courtesy visit at the Government House in Calabar.
The governor noted that maritime security is critical to the economic growth and safety of the state, particularly as Cross River is a coastal state with vast maritime resources and opportunities.
He stressed that improved security along the waterways would help protect lives and property while also boosting trade, tourism and other maritime related activities.
Otu assured the naval institution of the state government’s readiness to partner with relevant security agencies to maintain peace and stability across the state’s waterways.
He commended the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to national security and for the role the Amphibious Training School plays in training personnel to respond to maritime and amphibious operations.
According to the governor, collaboration between the state government and the Navy will enhance security surveillance and strengthen the capacity to tackle emerging maritime threats.
Earlier, the Commandant of the Amphibious Training School said the visit was aimed at strengthening existing relationships between the Navy and the Cross River State Government.
He acknowledged the support the school has continued to receive from the state government and expressed the institution’s willingness to work closely with the administration to improve maritime safety and security in the state.
The commandant added that the Nigerian Navy remains committed to protecting Nigeria’s territorial waters and supporting efforts that will promote economic development in coastal states like Cross River.