Cross River Intensifies War Against Terror, Kidnapping At Security Summit

NSAN NDOMA-NEJI,Calabar 

Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has Pledged to intensify the war against terror and kidnapping in the state, commending security agencies for restoring relative peace while calling for sustained synergy and professionalism.

 Governor Otu who is represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, gave the charge on Thursday while declaring open the Cross River State Security Summit 2026 themed "Cross River Unites Against Terror" at the Pearl Ballroom, Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar.

Otu described security as "the foundation upon which development in all its ramifications thrives," stressing that investment, tourism, commerce and sustainable development can only flourish in a peaceful environment. 

He attributed the state's improved security to proactive interventions, including the establishment of Operation Okwok and strengthened inter-agency collaboration.

Odey urged security agencies not to relent but to deepen cooperation and uphold human rights, while calling on traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society, youth and women groups, the media and all residents to support security efforts through vigilance and intelligence sharing. 

"We say no to kidnapping, no to armed robbery, no to banditry, and no to anything that threatens the lives, property, and dignity of our people. This summit is not just another meeting; it is a united call to action," he said.

In his keynote address, the Director of the State Security Service, Cross River Command, Mr. Oluwole Faluyi, lauded the administration for strengthening the state's security architecture. 

He said the "Unite Against Terror" campaign is not merely a slogan but a call to action.

 "Lasting peace and security cannot be achieved by government or security agencies alone. Every resident has a responsibility to remain vigilant, cooperate with lawful authorities, and promote peaceful coexistence," Faluyi stated.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Content Development and Archiving and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, welcomed participants to what she described as a historic gathering to forge a renewed social contract between government and citizens.

 She said the summit would produce practical strategies for tackling terrorism, kidnapping, cultism and cybercrime.

 The highpoint was the presentation of papers on strategies on sustenance of peace , goodwill messages and adoption of the summit communiqué.