To unlock the economic potential in the maritime sector, Cross River State Governor Sen Bassey Edet Otu has Commissioned a new Sea Express Ferry Boat In Calabar.
This involves creating a conducive environment and institutional framework as well as fostering a private-sector-driven economy.
The Chairman of Sea Express Ltd, Mr Thompson Eja, acquired the newly ‘MF Michael Eja-Enya, ferry boat.
During the commissioning on Tuesday, the Deputy Governor, Rt Hon. Peter Odey said that the governor was happy with Eja’s patriotism and investment in the maritime sector.
The Deputy Governor who represented Governor Otu expressed gratitude to Mr. Eja, Chairman of Sea Express Ltd.
Moreover, he observed noticable benefits of marine boats in sustaining economic development of the state.
He emphasized that the waterways do not only serve as a gateway to the Gulf of Guinea but also a pathway to sustainable economic development for the state.
“The Cross River State Government values the blue economy,” said the Deputy Governor.
Equally speaking was the Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Agency, NIWA, Engr. Stanley Onouha.
Engr. Onouha commended the Governor for the appointment of Pst. Ekpenyong Cobham as Commissioner for Transport.
For instance, he described the Commissioner as unassuming and hardworking.
Truth Live News gathered that Onouha urged the government to support Sea Express in the area of increased security and tax exemption.
He observed that the enterprise already have added value to the state in the area of employment of Cross Riverians.
Moreover, he said the company is only 2 years old.
Meanwhile, The Chairman of Sea Express, Mr. Thompson Eja, expressed gratitude to the state Governor for identifying with private businesses.
He said the gesture meant that Cross River was back on track.
Accordingly, the ferry boat will commute passengers from Calabar in Nigeria, Limbe, and Cameroon.
In the meantime, “the organization has recruited 40 employees in just two and half years of existence,” Mr. Eja said.
He specifically , thanked appreciated his partners and wife whom he described as biggest critic and supporter.
“I pledge my determination to work with the government for the improvement of the blue economy in the state,” he concluded.
Members of the State Executive Council including the Secretary to the State Government, the Chief of Staff to the Governor and commissioners attended the event.
Highpoint was a symbolic voyage on the vessel MF Michael Eja-Enya with the Governor’s representative and other dignitaries.
