Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured residents of Cross River State that the Federal Government remains committed to completing both the proposed Bakassi Deep Seaport and the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, while urging the electorate to re-elect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
​Speaking on Monday, November 2, 2026, during an All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign rally at the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar, Vice President Shettima highlighted the strategic economic reforms being executed across the nation and underscored the Federal Government’s vision to transform Cross River into a leading maritime powerhouse.
​Addressing thousands of party faithful gathered from across all 18 Local Government Areas, Vice President Shettima stressed that key infrastructure projects would serve as catalysts for regional economic expansion.
He noted that the Bakassi Deep Seaport, which has secured federal approval, is designed to operate as a premier international maritime gateway, driving global shipping commerce and creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
Additionally, he emphasized that the multi-trillion naira Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway would seamlessly connect coastal communities, streamline passenger and freight transport, stimulate commerce across the South-South region, and boost local tourism.
The Vice President also reiterated plans to relocate the Gulf of Guinea Commission Secretariat to Calabar as part of broader national security and maritime expansion efforts.
​”We have come to you again as the most trustworthy friends you can ever have,” Vice President Shettima declared to the crowd. “Over the past three years, you have shown us support and resisted lies and propaganda intended to misrepresent us. An alliance with Cross River is an alliance of progress, prosperity, and opportunity.”
​Reinforcing the message of continuity, Executive Governor Bassey Otu expressed confidence that Cross River State would deliver massive electoral support for the APC in 2027. Governor Otu stated that sustained partnership with the administration in Abuja is essential as the state transitions from recovery and restoration toward long-term wealth creation.
​Adding to the economic discourse, Minister of State for Industry Senator John Owan-Enoh acknowledged the initial hardships brought on by macroeconomic policy reforms, reassuring attendees that these foundational adjustments are now yielding tangible economic benefits.
​The high-profile political gathering drew prominent regional leaders, including Senate President Chief Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Governor Peter Odey, along with key state executive council members and South-South party stalwarts.
