The Cross River State Government has embarked on implementing the WASH System for Health (WS4H) programme in the Obubra Local Government Area, marking a significant milestone with the initial stakeholders’ meeting held at the Obubra Local Government Council recently.
At the meeting, the State Government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring all citizens have access to safe water, improved sanitation, and hygiene—essential elements for a healthy and productive society.
The event was organized by the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWATSSA) in partnership with the Ministry of Water Resources and Self Help Africa (SHA).
In his opening remarks, Commissioner for Water Resources, Barrister Bassey Offiong Mensah, emphasized that water, sanitation, and hygiene are not merely basic needs but are fundamental human rights and vital determinants of health and development.
He highlighted studies revealing that up to 80 percent of diseases in developing regions are linked to poor water and sanitation conditions. "Investing in WASH is, in truth, investing in the health, dignity, and prosperity of our people," he stated.
The Commissioner underscored the purpose of the meeting: to enhance collaboration among government agencies, development partners, and local authorities, ensuring WASH services are sustainable and accountable.
"Our discussions today will focus on jointly strengthening WASH systems for effective service delivery, aligning our efforts with national and global goals, and ensuring no community in Cross River State is left behind," he added.
Barrister Mensah recognized Self Help Africa and other partners for their continued support, which has positioned Cross River as a model for sustainable WASH service delivery.
On his part, Dr. Hippolatus Lukpata, the State Commissioner for International Donor Coordination, praised the local council's leadership for its commitment to the programme, affirming that Obubra has embraced the initiative.
He urged the community to safeguard WASH infrastructure and prosecute vandals, reminding attendees that Cross River was the first state to declare an LGA Open Defecation Free (ODF), however lamented the current situation, stating, "Now, no LGA is ODF; our hands must be on deck."
Dr. Bong Duke, Vice Chairman and CEO of the State Planning Commission (SPC), referred to the engagement as "an important meeting," emphasizing that the WS4H programme is a crucial intervention to build a healthier and more sustainable Cross River State.
Represented by Mr. Tommy Samuel, he highlighted the challenges posed by waterborne diseases, poor sanitation, and inadequate hygiene facilities, pledging to integrate the programme into the state’s development priorities.
Hon. Sunday Oko, General Manager of RUWATSSA, committed to relocating to Obubra to oversee the programme, stressing that this initiative requires full attention and cooperation. He reiterated Dr. Hippolatus' call for action against vandals, stating, “This is not business as usual."
Obubra LGA Chairman, Hon. Kingsley Arikpo, expressed gratitude to the state government for implementing the programme in his area without any lobbying, noting concerns about the protection and quality of infrastructure.
Mr. Ferdinand Anok, Senior WASH Officer at Self Help Africa, delivered a goodwill message encouraging participants to embrace hygiene practices seriously. The day included an institution-triggering activity aimed at raising awareness about sanitation issues, along with a visioning and assessment session.
The Paramount Ruler of Obubra also urged community members to maintain proper hygiene practices and safeguard public facilities provided through the programme.
Recall that Governor Senator Bassey Edet Otu approved ₦95 million in counterpart funding for a three-year WASH intervention programme in Obubra, as announced in August by the Commissioner for Water Resources and confirmed by RUWATSA's General Manager.
Nakanda Iyadim
