Governor Otu Receives New FOC, Hails Navy’s Efforts in Safeguarding Maritime Domain

Senator Bassey Otu, the governor of Cross River State, has reiterated his administration’s dedication to enhancing cooperation with the Nigerian Navy in order to improve marine security and protect the state’s coastal resources.

Governor Otu made this statement on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to Government House in Calabar with Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie, the new Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of Eastern Naval Command.
The governor called the visit “a mark of seriousness and purpose,” pointing out that the FOC’s quick interaction with the state government shows his willingness to take action.

Otu said, “I want to express my gratitude for your seriousness of purpose.” “I assumed it would take some time to see your face, but we suspended everything to welcome you as soon as we received the notice of your coming. That demonstrates your dedication and readiness for action.

Governor Otu praised the Navy for its long-standing collaboration with the state, especially in maintaining river and creek safety. In the state’s coastal corridor, he noted that the Eastern Naval Command has been a reliable ally in preserving calm and reducing maritime crimes.

He stated, “Security has remained one of our top priorities.” “To maintain peace and stability, we have been collaborating with the Command quite effectively. Your presence is made even more important by the Nigerian Navy’s in-depth knowledge of this region, including its creeks, waterways, and marine ecosystem.

The governor also expressed gratitude to the Cross River Naval officers who are still serving with distinction, noting that their commitment demonstrates the friendly ties between the state and the Navy.

Earlier in his speech, Rear Admiral Okehie thanked the governor for the cordial welcome and referred to his assignment to Calabar as “a homecoming,” having served in the state at various points in the past.

“As the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, I feel like I’m coming home,” Okehie remarked. “I had the honor of serving here from 2014 to 2016 as Commander, NNS Centenary, and from 2021 to 2022 as Commander, NNS Victory.” My admiration for the kind hospitality of the Cross River community and the ongoing collaboration between the state government and the Navy has grown as a result of these encounters.

In order to maintain marine security, advance the blue economy, and fortify civil-military collaboration, he promised that the Command, under his direction, would continue to collaborate closely with the Cross River State government.

“The Eastern Naval Command will deploy a highly professional and motivated force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests in accordance with the mission of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas,” Okehie declared. “We will collaborate with your government to strengthen cooperation for the peace and prosperity of our state and country, promote blue economy initiatives, and improve maritime security.”

“In safeguarding the maritime domain, we preserve also the nation’s peace and prosperity,” he added, pledging the Navy’s continuous support in the state’s efforts to promote peace, sustainable development, and the defense of national sovereignty.