The administration of Cross River State, under the stewardship of Bassey Otu, is actively soliciting augmented cooperation from the Nigerian Navy to counteract criminal activities pervading the state, underscoring the imperative of collaborative endeavors in ensuring tranquility and safety.
This entreaty was articulated during a momentous occasion in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, commemorating the transfer of authority between the outgoing and incoming Flag Officers Commanding the Eastern Naval Command.
Recognizing the pivotal role played by the Navy in restoring serenity and security throughout the state, the administration underscores the continual necessity for bolstered support and synergy from the naval establishment.
The ceremony in Calabar epitomized the shift in leadership within the Nigerian Eastern Naval Command, as Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, after a tenure of ten months, received a ceremonial tribute from the officers under his purview.
Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed conveyed gratitude to his subordinates for their unwavering backing during his incumbency and urged them to extend similar solidarity to the incoming Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Naval Command.
The outgoing Commander extolled the commitment exhibited by his team and stressed the significance of unity and collaboration in preserving security and thwarting malevolent elements exploiting maritime conduits for illicit undertakings.
In assuming the mantle of leadership, Rear Admiral Saheed Akinwande pledged to uphold the safety and security of Cross River State, pledging an inhospitable environment for abductors and felons seeking sanctuary in the maritime expanse.
Deputy Governor Peter Odey conveyed gratitude for the impactful tenure of the outgoing Commandant and implored the new Commander to foster close cooperation with the state administration to safeguard the maritime precinct.
Through concerted endeavors and synergy between the Cross River State Government and the Nigerian Navy, the aspiration is to significantly diminish the occurrences of abduction and unlawful activities within the state’s maritime confines, augmenting overall security and stability.