...Forum says accreditation will unlock maritime funds, jobs, federal projects

The Cross River Leaders Forum has hailed Governor Bassey Otu for securing Federal Government accreditation for Cross River as a littoral state, describing it as a historic breakthrough that will reposition the state economically.

In a statement on Thursday, the forum said the recognition validates Cross River’s long-standing claim to a coastline and opens the door to maritime revenue, derivation funds, and federal infrastructure projects that were previously inaccessible.

Chairman of the forum, Chief John Okon, said the accreditation is the result of deliberate diplomacy, legal advocacy, and consistent engagement by the Otu administration with federal authorities.

“This is a major victory for all Cross Riverians. For years we were cut off from our coastline and denied the benefits that come with it. Today, that door has been reopened,” Okon said.

He noted that with littoral status, Cross River will now be eligible for 13% derivation from offshore resources, priority consideration in NIMASA, NPA, and Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy projects, and increased funding for coastal protection.

The forum said the recognition will boost trade, port development, fisheries, tourism, and youth employment along the Calabar-Odukpani-Akpabuyo-Bakassi corridor.

It added that the status will also strengthen the state’s position in maritime security operations in the Gulf of Guinea and attract private investment into the Bakassi Deep Seaport and other coastal projects.

“Governor Otu has restored our identity as a coastal state. This means more jobs for our youths, more revenue for development, and more federal presence on our coastline,” Okon stated.

The Leaders Forum urged the state government to immediately set up a Technical Committee on Littoral Affairs to coordinate with federal agencies and ensure Cross River maximizes the benefits.

It also called on National Assembly members from the state to sponsor relevant bills that will institutionalize the gains and protect the state’s maritime boundaries.

“We commend Mr. Governor for this statesmanship. We must now work together to translate this accreditation into real development for our people,” the Forum said.