The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mallam Habib Abdullahi, gave an indication of the Federal Government’s mindset about the Calabar Port when he paid a courtesy visit to Cross River State Acting Governor Efiok Cobham at Govenment House, Calabar.
Abdullahi told his host that the Federal Government is concerned about the development of the Calabar Port and will, therefore, make concerted efforts to make it operate optimally.
“I am very happy and eager to inform you that Mr. President has approved the capital and maintenance dredging of Calabar Port,” Abdullahi declared.
He pointed out that both local and international investors would reap the benefits the dredging contract will offer.
The NPA General Manager, Public Affairs, Capt. Iheanacho Ebubeogu, explained in a press release, copy of which was sent to SHIPS & PORTS DAILY, that the NPA Managing Director, who was in Calabar as part of his familiarisation tour of port locations, said that the dredging, when completed, will enable bigger vessels to call at the Calabar Port, thereby boosting economic activities in Cross Rivers State and the entire geographical coverage area the port is intended to serve.
“In his response, the acting Governor described the dredging of the port as very critical to the economy of the state particularly now that it is veering off from over dependence on oil,” Ebubeogu stated.
The NPA Managing Director, according to the image maker, inspected port facilities during the tour and also addressed workers of the Authority, terminal operators and other stakeholders in the Calabar Port.
Ebubeogu added: “Mallam Habib Abdullahi equally paid a courtesy visit on the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V.”
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