Ukorebi Esien | June 10, 2026
CALABAR – The Cross River State Water Board Limited has issued a 30-day quit notice to illegal occupants of its properties across the state, warning that failure to vacate may result in enforcement actions, including the removal of unauthorized structures and the recovery of Water Board assets.
The notice, signed by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the agency, High Chief Godwin Iyam, followed a recent concession agreement between the Water Board and Agua Global Services Nigeria Limited, aimed at revitalising water supply infrastructure in the state.
In a press statement dated June 10, 2026, the Water Board directed the Ministry of Water Resources, Ministry of Power, Special Duties, and all other occupants of its properties to vacate the affected premises within 30 days.
According to the agency, the directive became necessary to enable the concessionaire to take possession of operational facilities required for the implementation of the water sector reform initiative.
The statement further disclosed that technical assessments carried out by the Water Board revealed that more than 17 structures are currently situated on major water pipelines, creating significant risks to public safety and threatening the integrity of critical water infrastructure.
"The recent concession agreement with Agua Global Services Nigeria Limited and the need to provide operational facilities for the concessionaire necessitate the recovery of Water Board properties," the statement said.
It added that the structures erected on major water pipelines pose serious dangers, including the potential disruption of water supply services and increased vulnerability of key infrastructure assets.
The agency warned that occupants who fail to comply with the directive within the stipulated period would face lawful enforcement measures.
"Failure to comply may result in lawful enforcement actions, including the removal of unauthorized structures in Ikom, Calcemco and the recovery of Water Board properties across the state," the statement noted.
The Water Board also advised its staff currently residing within the affected areas to relocate immediately to avoid possible loss of life and property.
"All staff of Water Board living in the affected areas are by this notice expected to relocate to avoid loss of life," the statement added.
The development signals the commencement of efforts by the state-owned utility company to reclaim its assets and facilitate the implementation of the concession arrangement designed to improve water production, distribution and service delivery across Cross River State.
Observers say the exercise may affect several government offices, private occupants and structures located on Water Board properties, particularly in areas identified as critical to the state's water infrastructure network.
However, the agency maintained that the action is necessary to safeguard public assets, protect lives and ensure the successful execution of ongoing reforms in the water sector.
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