In a significant move toward improving public health and ensuring a sustainable water supply, Governor Bassey Edet Otu has officially signed into law, the Cross River State Water Supply and Sanitation Law No. 5, 2025, as part of a broader legislative effort that includes eight other new laws aimed at addressing the State's developmental needs.
This important Water legislation guarantees citizens access to basic water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services and establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the sector.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Government House, Calabar Tuesday, Governor Bassey Otu emphasised the importance of this law in reshaping the water sector to ensure that every resident of Cross River State has access to clean and safe water.
“Access to water is a fundamental human right, and this law marks a commitment to improving the lives of our citizens by ensuring they have the necessities of life. Through this legislation, we are not just providing services but fostering a healthier community,' He reiterated.
The Governor praised the collaborative efforts of the Cross River State House of Assembly, which unanimously endorsed his two-year performance and expressed support for his re-election bid in 2027.
Earlier, the Speaker , Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem highlighted the law’s significance, stating, “This legislation is crucial for safeguarding public health and enhancing the quality of life in our communities. It lays the groundwork for future investments in sanitation infrastructure that will benefit generations to come.”
He added that the law sets up a regulatory framework that will streamline the management of water resources, ensuring that they are used efficiently and sustainably, positing that it aims to address the challenges that have historically hindered access to clean water, such as mismanagement and resource depletion.
This water law is part of a suite of new regulations designed to modernise governance in Cross River State. Alongside it, Governor Otu has introduced laws addressing fire safety, security, infrastructure, and healthcare, each contributing to an overarching vision of inclusive growth and improved service delivery.
In light of the recent enactment of the water law, Governor Otu reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritising essential services amid economic challenges. “We understand the difficulties many face within our state, and we are continually striving to improve our governance framework. These laws, especially the water law, will pave the way for sustainable development and better living conditions for all citizens.”
As the State moves forward with these reforms, the Cross River State Water Supply and Sanitation Law stands out as a beacon of hope for enhanced public health and well-being, illustrating the administration's proactive approach to tackling pressing issues within the community.
The new laws are :
The Cross River State Water Supply and Sanitation Law No. 5, 2025, which guarantees citizens' access to basic water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services. It also sets up a regulatory framework for the sector.
The Cross River State Fire Fighting and Rescue Service Law No. 4, 2024, enhances emergency response operations and contributes to increasing the state’s internally generated revenue.
The Cross River State Security Trust Fund (Amendment) Law No. 6, 2024, which empowers the Governor to appoint a qualified person as chairman to lead the Fund, ensuring better focus on the state's security challenges.
The Cross River State Scraps Regulatory Agency (Amendment) Law No. 9, 2025, aims to curb the activities of scavengers and vandals targeting public and private property.
The Cross River State Rural Access Road Authority Law No. 8, 2025, seeks to prevent the neglect of vital rural routes, particularly those linking farming communities.
The Cross River State Traffic Management and Regulatory Agency (Amendment) Law No. 4, 2024, clarifies key functions and addresses revenue-related overlaps, particularly in motor vehicle licensing.
The Cross River State Records and Archives Bureau Law No. 7, 2024, establishes an agency to manage and archive critical state documents.
The Cross River State Drugs and Health Commodities Management Agency Law No. 10, 2025, which strengthens the supply of medical essentials to both public and private healthcare facilities while encouraging public-private partnerships.
As well as the Cross River State Forestry Research Institute (Establishment) Law No. 6, 2024, which creates an institution dedicated to forestry and environmental research, supporting both academic development and sustainable resource management.
