"This deployment represents a comprehensive technology-driven response to contemporary security and urban management challenges," said Dr Bong Duke, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Planning Commission.

Cross River state is taking a bold step to tackle crime and floods with the introduction of AI-powered surveillance cameras. The state executive council has approved the project, which will deploy artificial intelligence-powered cameras and monitoring systems across strategic locations in the state.

The current analogue surveillance methodology is outdated and provides limited coverage, covering less than ten per cent of Calabar metropolis and none of the other major urban centres. The existing system has been unable to provide effective security and emergency response, leaving the state vulnerable to various threats.

The new smart surveillance project will feature artificial intelligence-enabled smart cameras equipped with facial recognition technology, automatic number plate recognition, violence and theft detection, fire alerts, flood-level monitoring, and illegal waste-dumping detection. The system will be powered by industrial solar-powered installations, wireless data transmission infrastructure, and a unified video analytics dashboard.

The project aims to improve public safety, emergency response, and climate resilience across the state. It will also support flood early-warning systems, improve traffic management, strengthen the state’s zero-waste campaign, and reduce emergency response time. According to Dr Duke, the deployment of Artificial Intelligence into governance has the potential to provide verifiable, real-time data for informed decision-making while significantly enhancing public safety, environmental monitoring, and service delivery.

The project is part of the Cross River State Resilience Agenda (2026–2030), a strategic framework for improving disaster preparedness, climate adaptation, and public infrastructure through technology-driven solutions. The state government is confident that the new surveillance system will strengthen security ahead of AFSNET 2026 and improve Cross River’s attractiveness to investors and tourists.

The first phase of the project will cover major intersections and government facilities within Calabar Municipality, vulnerable coastal communities and waterways, the Ikang Expressway, Carnival routes, and other identified security flashpoints. The installations will be connected to a central command centre at the Office of the State Security Adviser to enable real-time monitoring and intelligence gathering.

According to Dr Duke, the project will create jobs for at least 120 local technicians involved in civil works and equipment installation. The state government is committed to deploying 21st-century technology to safeguard lives, strengthen environmental resilience, stimulate economic growth, and build a smarter, safer, and more prosperous Cross River for present and future generations.

Key Facts:

  • The state has approved a statewide smart surveillance project using AI-powered cameras.
  • The project will modernize the state’s security infrastructure and address emerging environmental challenges.
  • The current analogue surveillance system covers less than 10% of Calabar metropolis and none of the other major urban centers.
  • The project will create jobs for at least 120 local technicians.
  • The state government aims to improve public safety, emergency response, and climate resilience across the state.
  • The project is part of the Cross River State Resilience Agenda (2026–2030) to improve disaster preparedness, climate adaptation, and public infrastructure.
  • The state government is confident that the new surveillance system will strengthen security ahead of AFSNET 2026 and improve Cross River’s attractiveness to investors and tourists.
  • The project will be implemented through Huawei’s local partner, Dubass Synergy Multi-Services Limited.