SECURITY IN ACTION: CALABAR SOUTH STRENGTHENS STRATEGIC ALLIANCE AS CHAIRMAN ARCHIBONG PRESENTS PATROL VEHICLE TO CIVIL DEFENCE COMMAND.

In a bold and symbolic move that underscores the deepening architecture of security in Calabar South, the Executive Chairman of Calabar South Local Government Council, Pst. Hon. Patrick Archibong, on Tuesday received the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Cross River State Command, CC Okarazu Chima, on a strategic courtesy visit focused squarely on strengthening security collaboration.

The atmosphere at the Council Secretariat was charged with purpose and optimism as the Commandant, in his remarks, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Chairman for the warm reception. He stated unequivocally that his visit was not ceremonial but mission-driven.

“Our primary focus is security,” he declared. “The Civil Defence Corps has advanced geometrically in capacity, manpower, and logistics. We are prepared, fully prepared, to partner with the Council in tackling insecurity in all its forms.”

Commandant Chima praised the proactive security posture of the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Bassey Edet Otu, describing him as a leader who has elevated Cross River to one of the most security-conscious states in the federation. He noted that the same spirit of vigilance and responsibility is evident in the leadership style of the Calabar South Chairman with the progress of work at the Anantigha Police Station.

“I have been thoroughly briefed about Calabar South,” the Commandant added with firm resolve. “I am a man of action, not words. Our performance will move from 50 percent to 100 percent. My officers and men will always be available at the call of the Chairman.”

In his response, Pst. Hon. Patrick Archibong welcomed the Commandant with warmth and spiritual conviction, reminding all present that Calabar South remains a Local Government dedicated to God from the very inception of his administration.

“When I assumed office, I rededicated this Local Government to the glory of God,” the Chairman said solemnly. “For the watchman watches in vain unless God Himself guards the city.”

He commended the Commandant for upholding integrity within the Corps, particularly ensuring that officers under his command do not compromise their duty through bribery. According to the Chairman, security must be built on trust, discipline, and moral strength.

Demonstrating his administration’s commitment beyond rhetoric, the Chairman revealed that the once dilapidated Civil Defence patrol vehicle had been fully repaired, mechanically restored, fitted with necessary parts, and given complete bodywork to return it to operational standard.

The high point of the visit was the formal presentation of the newly functional patrol vehicle to the Commandant. It was a moment filled with symbolism, government and security agencies standing shoulder to shoulder in a shared resolve to protect lives and property. The Commandant received the vehicle with profound gratitude, describing it as a timely boost that would energize his officers for immediate action.

Present at the strategic meeting were the Head of Local Government Administration, Chief Mrs. Mbiet Isoni; the Council Secretary, Chief Nathaniel Ikpeme; the Special Adviser on Peace and Security; the Council DSO, Mr. Francis Bassey; representatives of the Nigeria Immigration Service and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, alongside senior officers of the Civil Defence Corps including Area A Commander AC Marcelina Ebong, Divisional Officer CSC Okokon Orok Effiong (Calabar South), OC Okwok CSC Eyamba Opinion, State PRO SC Iyeme Kini, and other principal officers.

The gathering reflected a unified front, security agencies, council leadership, and stakeholders aligned in a singular commitment to peace.

Indeed, it was more than a courtesy visit. It was a declaration of intent. A reaffirmation that in Calabar South, security is not an afterthought but a sacred duty, anchored in faith, strengthened by partnership, and propelled by action.

It was, by every measure, a beautiful and purposeful engagement.

*Nkese Eneyo*

Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman

Calabar South Local Government Council.