Ukorebi Esien | March 31, 2026
CALABAR – The Cross River State Government has intensified efforts to address water scarcity in public schools with the provision of potable water through targeted Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions across selected secondary schools in the state.
The initiative, unveiled as part of activities marking the 2026 World Water Day celebration themed "Water and Gender – Where Water Flows, Equality Grows," underscores the administration's commitment to improving access to safe water, particularly for students in vulnerable communities.
Representing Governor Bassey Edet Otu at the commissioning ceremony held at Edgerly Memorial Girls Secondary School in Calabar South Local Government Area, the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Pastor Bong Duke, stated that the government is prioritizing sustainable solutions to the persistent water challenges affecting schools.
He emphasized that access to potable water is fundamental to health, dignity, and educational outcomes, noting that many students, especially girls have long faced the burden of trekking long distances in search of water, often at the expense of their safety and academic performance.
According to him, the provision of solar-powered boreholes and the rehabilitation of existing water facilities are part of broader strategies aimed at strengthening WASH services in schools and promoting inclusive development.
"These projects are not just about infrastructure; they are about restoring dignity, improving health, and creating opportunities for our young people to thrive," he said, adding that the government remains open to partnerships that will further enhance water service delivery across the state.
As part of the intervention, solar-powered boreholes were installed and commissioned in key schools, including Edgerly Memorial Girls Secondary School and Government Girls Secondary School, Big Qua. In addition, a new solar-powered water system with overhead tanks and a reticulation network was delivered at Academy Primary School, Mayne Avenue, ensuring a reliable and environmentally sustainable water supply for students and staff.
The projects were executed by the Cross River State Ministry of Water Resources under the leadership of the Commissioner for Water Resources, Barrister Bassey Offiong Mensah, who reiterated the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in advancing public health and gender equality.
He noted that improved access to clean water and sanitation facilities would significantly enhance menstrual hygiene management for schoolgirls, reduce absenteeism, and foster a more conducive learning environment.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Okon Ita, listed the challenges faced by students due to inadequate water supply, describing the intervention as a timely response to a longstanding issue.
The event also featured technical presentations and stakeholder goodwill messages, emphasizing the critical link between water access and gender equality, as well as the need for collaborative action to achieve sustainable WASH outcomes.
With these interventions, the Cross River State Government signals a renewed commitment to ensuring that no child is denied quality education due to lack of access to clean and safe water.
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