Cross River to establish naval base at UNICAL

By Godwin Onyemaechi

Cross River State Government has disclosed plans to establish a naval base in partnership with the Nigerian Navy, at the riverine area of the University of Calabar (UNICAL).

Governor Ben Ayade made this known yon Monday in Calabar when he received the Chairman and Pro-Chancellor of the University of Calabar Governing Council, retired Gen. Martin Luther-Agwai.

He (Luther-Agwai) was accompanied on the visit by the UNICAL Vice Chancellor, Prof. Florence Obi, and other members of the council.

Ayade, represented by his deputy, Prof. Ivara Esu, said the decision to establish the base was reached during the state security council meeting.

He said it was important to establish the base, to curb insecurity around the riverine area of the university and beyond.Ayade said the government placed premium on the management, welfare and running of the university.

He said: “I am glad to receive this great team today because we are partners in the growth and development of UNICAL.
“On the issue of insecurity, I want to inform you that we agreed at our last security meeting that we would establish a naval base at the riverine area of the university to stem insecurity on campus.

“Most of the bad boys were using the riverside to strike into the university community. We are passionate about UNICAL; we will do our best to ensure the security of students and workers.”
The governor assured the team of the government‘s support for their activities that would move the university forward.
Luther-Agwai appealed to the government to also look into the issue of land encroachment by some individuals and host communities.
He said they needed the support of stakeholders in the state to position the university as one of the best in the country and around the globe.

The chairman urged other members to support them in their bid to reposition the university for the benefit of all.