The Cross River State Government has recorded a major breakthrough in its quest to transform the state into a maritime hub with the official presentation of the Hydrographic, Geotechnical, Geophysical Report and New Navigational Chart for the proposed Bakassi Deep Seaport project.

Speaking at a formal ceremony held in the State Executive Council Chamber, Governor Bassey Otu described the event as a “historic milestone” that not only affirms Nigeria’s maritime boundaries but also sets the stage for an economic revolution across the Gulf of Guinea.

“This is truly a historic day, not just for Cross River State but for the entire country,” Otu said. “What we have achieved today replaces charts dating back to 1903 and settles long-standing debates about Cross River’s status as a littoral state. This chart clearly affirms our coastal status.”

The governor emphasised that the updated maritime chart now aligns with S-100 international standards, positioning Cross River for deepwater commerce and international shipping operations.
MEANWHILE, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has issued a warning to boat operators and passengers in Bakassi, Cross River State, urging them to comply with safety regulations.

During one of its routine sensitisationcampaigns on Monday, the agency warned that boat operators must wear life jackets, avoid night travel, and refrain from overloading or face arrest and prosecution.
The agency accused some operators of prioritising profits over passenger safety, vowing that violators of the safety rules would no longer be allowed to operate unchecked.