The 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.

Governor Ben Ayade disclosed this on Monday when he received the chairman and pro-chancellor of the University of Calabar Governing Council, Martin Luther-Agwai.

Represented by his deputy, Ivara Esu, the governor said that the decision to establish the base was reached during the state’s security council meeting.

“I am glad to receive this great team today because we are all partners in the growth and development of UniCal.

“On the issue of insecurity, I want to inform you that we agreed in our last security meeting that we will establish a naval base at the riverine area of the university to stem cases of 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 staff,” he said.

He assured the team of the state government‘s support for all their activities that would move the university forward.

Mr Luther-Agwai, who was accompanied on the visit by the vice-chancellor and other members of the Council, appealed to the state government to look into the issue of land encroachment by some individuals and host communities.

He said that 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.