BAKASSI UNITE FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE DAY CELEBRATION IN IKANG

By Effiom Gertrude- Bakassi Union

The annual International Day of Peace was celebrated with great enthusiasm in Bakassi Local Government Area. This year’s theme, "Cultivating a Culture of Peace," resonated strongly with the people of Bakassi, who are committed to promoting peace, unity, development, and safety in their Local Government Area.

The event, organized by the Bakassi Union in collaboration with the Bakassi International Fish Festival, brought together various stakeholders, traditional rulers, youths, friends, and supporters of Bakassi. It featured series of activities, including a display of the rich culture of Bakassi. Speeches from the various speakers emphasized the need for sustainable peace. AIG Chief Enene Rtd, the Chairman of the event, amplified the need for the people of Bakassi to continue to be peaceful and united. He stated that without peace, development cannot take root and without development, peace cannot be sustained.

Hon. Barr. Joseph Etene, SA, to the governor on legislation, affirmed that Bakassi has experienced her share of challenges, but today, the people have come together to affirm their commitment to peace, development, and safety for all in Bakassi. He called on all citizens of Bakassi to ensure that they stay united and stressed on the need for the government to establish a skill acquisition center in Bakassi.

Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham, the Honourable Commissioner for Transport, emphasized the need to build sustainable peace by investing in Human capital development to raise indigenes who can be lucratively involved in the developmental projects of this administration.

The region is now changing its narrative toward peace, growth, and opportunity. Bakassi is transitioning from its past as a contested area into a region of peace, promise, and prosperity, thanks to the concerted efforts of all. The Chairman of Bakassi Union, Hon. Chief Ani Esin, made this known. He went on to state that part of the obligation of the union is to ensure peace and maintain the former three wards of Ikang as Bakassi. Also, noting that the indigenes of the ceded part of Bakassi who relocated to Ikang seventeen years ago, are peacefully integrated with the people of Ikang. Since their immigration to Ikang, there has not been any form of violence occasioned by the Ikang people against them. Therefore, the people of Bakassi have joined in the celebration of this year’s International Peace Day,

He also appreciated the State government for scaling up the security activities in the State. Because of this, Bakassi communities have enjoyed relative peace.

In his speech, the State Security Adviser to the governor appreciated the people of Bakassi for always cooperating with the security agencies to ensure peace and security of lives and property in Bakassi. He urged them to continue in that same light.

The event is part of the effort of the people of Bakassi to align with the vision of the 'People First' Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu. A commitment to making Bakassi an attractive destination for investment, leveraging its strategic location and resources to drive the economic development of the state and the nation at large.

Bakassi is receptive to developments, such as the planned Bakassi Deep Seaport, which is designed to boost trade in the South-South region, stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities.

To the Youths, the Honorable Commissioner for Commerce Hon. Dr. Abigail Duke, admonished the Youths of Bakassi to equip themselves with adequate skills so as to rightly place themselves for the diverse job opportunities the proposed deep sea port project will provide

Consequently, Director General Inland Water Ways, Mr. Effiong Etim Okon, appreciated the Youths for their effort in maintaining the peace and tranquility in Bakassi. He encouraged them to acquaint themselves with the necessary skills that can rightly place them for greater opportunities. The government of Cross River State has zero tolerance for crime. He went on to remind the people that Bakassi is one and united, therefore should not allow themselves to be misled by persons who want to thwart the efforts of the Governor, His Excellency Senator Prince Out, in bringing developmental projects to Bakassi. He enjoined other stakeholders to endorse Peace, stability and progress in Bakassi.

In tandem with the Director General, Inland Water ways, the Special Assistant to the Governor, General Duties, Hon. Ekpenyong Akiba Esq. appreciated the people of Bakassi for staying united and encouraged all to continue in love for each other as that is the foundation for sustainable peace in every society.

Godwill messages we also delivered by the represtative of clan head of Ikang, H.H. Etinyin Antigha Cobham, Chief Gabriel Etim- Director CUDA, Mrs Christie Eso- Director SEMA, among many others.

The celebrations concluded with a release of a dove as symbolic reminder that Bakassi is a peaceful and secure region, offering promising investment opportunities, particularly in maritime infrastructures.