By Tony Awah in Mamfe
The Government of Cameroon, through its state representative — the Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) for Manyu, Awounfac Alienou Yves Bertrand — has embarked on a high-level diplomatic mission aimed at boosting bilateral cooperation with Nigeria. In partnership with committed economic operators from both countries, the initiative is designed to enhance cross-border security, intelligence-sharing, and foster economic growth, particularly in the cocoa and fuel sectors.
In the first phase of the diplomatic engagement, the Cameroonian delegation, led by SDO Awounfac, held a key meeting in Ikom, Cross River State, with Dr. Mrs. Glory Effiong, the state’s Accountant General. The session, which brought together traditional rulers, local government chairmen, divisional officers, security officers, elites, and business operators from both nations, focused on the establishment of a conducive framework for free and legal trade in cocoa and petroleum products. SDO Awounfac highlighted the economic potential of open trade corridors, asserting that such cooperation would directly boost state revenues and create sustainable livelihoods for citizens on both sides of the border.
Adding to the momentum, Nigerian economic stakeholders and local leaders echoed strong support for the proposal. They stressed the need for open, regulated trade and greater interdependence between border communities, particularly in agriculture and fuel distribution. In response, Dr. Effiong lauded the initiative and assured the Cameroonian delegation that she would relay the deliberations to the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Bassey Otu, for further policy direction and bilateral coordination.
In the second phase of the mission, SDO Awounfac held a security-focused meeting with top officers from the Nigerian Police and Army. The dialogue zeroed in on intelligence-sharing, particularly on the activities of armed separatist fighters who exploit Nigerian territory as operational hideouts. The engagements culminated at the Mfum Border, where SDO Awounfac met with J.A. Onyema, Commander of the Nigeria Immigration Service. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to joint border patrols, increased surveillance, and cooperation to neutralize cross-border threats. The Cameroonian delegation expressed confidence that the outcomes of the mission will not only reduce insecurity but also revitalise economic and diplomatic ties between the two neighbouring nations.