ADC chieftain backs Lagos-Calabar highway, says project will transform Cross River

Former Senator representing Cross River South Senatorial District, Senator Gershom Bassey, has thrown his weight behind the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, describing it as a transformative national infrastructure that will unlock the economic potential of Cross River State and the South-South region.

Bassey, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made the remarks during a media chat with journalists in Calabar, where he urged Nigerians to support the project irrespective of political differences.

According to him, the coastal highway is a strategic investment that will significantly boost trade, tourism, transportation and regional connectivity when completed.

“The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway should be supported by all stakeholders because of its immense economic benefits to Cross River State, the South-South and Nigeria as a whole,” he said.

The former two-term senator expressed confidence in the long-term sustainability of the project, noting that the public-private partnership (PPP) model proposed for its management would ensure effective maintenance and operation.

Bassey also linked the project to his advocacy for true federalism, arguing that Nigeria should focus on devolving more powers to the federating units within the framework of the existing Constitution rather than pursuing constitutional restructuring or the creation of additional states.

“What Nigeria needs is true federalism and devolution of powers in line with the provisions of the present Constitution. Agitations for restructuring and the creation of new states involve cumbersome constitutional processes,” he said.

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He further urged Nigerians to embrace patriotism and place national development above partisan interests.

“We must exhibit the spirit of patriotism in whatever we do to build a nation we can all be proud of,” he added.

Assessing developments in Cross River State, Bassey said Governor Bassey Otu had recorded notable achievements, particularly in tackling insecurity, which he said had led to a significant reduction in kidnapping across the state.

He, however, maintained that government must intensify efforts to improve the welfare of citizens amid prevailing economic challenges.

The former lawmaker also commended the state government’s efforts toward securing the allocation of 300 oil wells to Cross River, expressing optimism that the development would substantially improve the state’s economic fortunes.

Speaking on national issues, Bassey described President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms as necessary but “painful”, questioning the approach adopted in implementing some of the policies.

He also endorsed the proposed State Police Bill before the National Assembly, saying the establishment of state police had become imperative in addressing the country’s growing security challenges.

While supporting the initiative, he stressed the need for adequate constitutional safeguards to prevent abuse of the system by state governors.

“State police will complement the efforts of the federal police in tackling insecurity, but there must be measures to forestall possible abuses by state governors,” he said.