President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday, October 17, 2019 promised that his administration would ensure it fully supports the development of the historic city of Calabar, capital of Cross River state.
The president said it when he hosted His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi, Otu V, Obong of Calabar, at the State House.
A statement by Garba Shehu, presidential spokesperson, said Buhari noted that though Calabar had lost its status as the first capital city of southern Nigeria to Lagos, his government would open the city to the entire country.
The president also promised to bring happiness to the people of the city and the state.
“We will open up that part of Nigeria to the rest of the country,” President Buhari promised.
He added: “Three road projects – Calabar-Ugep-Ikom-Ogoja; Calabar-Itu-Ikot Ekpene and Sapele-Ewu – are at various stages of completion.”
Buhari also promised to support the Calabar deep sea port project adding that this would follow some electricity projects the state would enjoy from his government.
Speaking at the meeting, the Obong of Calabar lamented that Calabar had been neglected.
He pleaded for more projects including roads,
power , maritime access, security and border issues as well as the plight of displaced persons from the Bakassi Islands.
