Homeland Security Leads Peace Walk to Consolidate Peace, Boost Investor Confidence in Cross River

The Cross River State Homeland Safety and Security Agency has organised a colourful Peace Walk aimed at consolidating the prevailing peace in the state while reinforcing public confidence and attracting both local and foreign investors.

The exercise, tagged “Cross River State Peace Walk… for Lasting Peace and Security,” brought together security agencies, youth groups, community leaders and residents, all united in a symbolic demonstration of solidarity for peace. Akahi News gathered that the initiative reflects the state government’s broader commitment to sustaining security through collaboration, intelligence and grassroots engagement.

Otu’s Security Architecture Underlined

Speaking during the event, the Convener and Director (South) of the Homeland Safety and Security Agency, Chief Michael Orok Nsan, described the Peace Walk as a strategic sensitisation programme designed to be sustained periodically. According to him, the initiative is anchored on the security framework instituted by Governor Bassey Otu.

Chief Nsan noted that the governor’s leadership has resulted in a significant turnaround in the state’s security profile, with incidents of kidnapping, cultism and other social vices drastically reduced. He stressed that the improved security climate has restored public confidence and positioned Cross River as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful destinations for business and tourism.

“Cross River State remains one of the most peaceful states in the country, and investors are most welcome,” he said, adding that peace remains a collective responsibility that must be protected at the community level.

Peace Accord, Rehabilitation Take Centre Stage

A major highlight of the initiative, Akahi News learnt, is the Peace Accord voluntarily signed by families, youth groups and former crime actors who have renounced violence and criminality. The accord commits signatories to shun internal and external conflicts, desist from kidnapping and cult-related activities, and embrace lawful means of livelihood.

Chief Nsan explained that, rather than being abandoned, repentant youths are being integrated into rehabilitation and skills acquisition programmes, particularly within agricultural value chains and other productive sectors. He added that a joint intelligence committee and a comprehensive security database are also being developed to strengthen intelligence gathering and early response mechanisms across the state.

Intelligence-Driven Security Paying Off

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Forensic and Intelligence, Dr Koko Henshaw, attributed the prevailing peace in Cross River to Governor Otu’s intelligence-driven and community-focused security strategy. He said the state has not witnessed cult wars or widespread insecurity since the current administration assumed office.

According to him, criminal activities that once posed serious challenges, including kidnapping, have been significantly curtailed, making Cross River a reference point for peace and security in the country.

In his remarks, the Director of Homeland Security (Central), Mr Felix William Arikpo, commended the establishment of the Homeland Safety and Security framework, noting that proactive engagement, dialogue and intelligence-led operations have reduced communal and cult-related clashes, particularly in Calabar and other former flashpoints.

A Message of Reassurance

The Peace Walk, which commenced from the popular 11/11 Roundabout and passed through major streets of the capital city, served as a public reassurance of the government’s zero tolerance for violence and its determination to completely eradicate insecurity.

Akahi News gathered that the initiative forms part of broader efforts by the Cross River State Government to project stability, reassure residents and investors, and entrench a culture of peace that supports sustainable development.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.

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