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Federal lawmaker applauds President Tinubu’s support and Governor Otu’s commitment to unlocking Cross River’s economic potential.
The Member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku (OBO) Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Peter Akpanke, has joined other prominent stakeholders in Cross River State to receive President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Bakassi Deep Seaport.
Hon. Akpanke stood in solidarity with Governor Bassey Edet Otu, alongside federal and state lawmakers, traditional rulers, party leaders and other stakeholders, at the historic ceremony held in Bakassi on Friday, November 13, 2026.
The groundbreaking marks a significant milestone in Cross River State’s economic development journey, with the Bakassi Deep Seaport expected to create new opportunities in maritime trade, shipping, logistics, manufacturing, investment and employment.
Speaking on the significance of the project, Hon. Akpanke described the seaport as a major game-changer for Cross River State and the South-South region, noting that its actualisation would expand the state’s economic opportunities and strengthen its position in Nigeria’s maritime and commercial landscape.
He commended President Tinubu for his administration’s support towards the realisation of the long-awaited project, describing the Federal Government’s commitment as an important step towards advancing infrastructure development and economic diversification in Cross River State.
The federal lawmaker also applauded Governor Otu for his visionary leadership, determination and sustained efforts in driving the project from years of conception and setbacks to its present stage of actualisation.
According to him, the Bakassi Deep Seaport, alongside other strategic infrastructure initiatives, will open Cross River to greater investment opportunities, stimulate industrial activities, create employment and improve the economic prospects of communities across the state.
Hon. Akpanke further noted that the project holds enormous potential for the people of Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku, as its economic benefits are expected to extend beyond Bakassi to other parts of Cross River State through increased commercial activities, improved connectivity and expanded business opportunities.
He expressed optimism that the seaport would attract local and international investors, strengthen regional trade and position Cross River as an important maritime and economic hub in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.
The lawmaker reaffirmed his support for development initiatives capable of improving the lives of Cross Riverians, stressing the importance of collaboration between the Federal Government, the state government, elected representatives and other stakeholders in translating major infrastructure investments into tangible benefits for the people.
The Bakassi Deep Seaport is expected to serve as a strategic gateway for international maritime commerce, complement existing Nigerian ports, ease pressure on established shipping corridors and unlock the vast economic potential of Cross River State.
The historic groundbreaking represents a major step towards turning Cross River’s longstanding maritime ambition into reality, with expectations of increased investment, industrial expansion and job creation in the years ahead.
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