The Cross River State Government has commissioned solar-powered water projects in selected public schools as part of efforts to improve access to clean water and promote hygiene among students.
The projects were inaugurated in Calabar South Local Government Area during activities marking the 2026 World Water Day, themed “Water and Gender – Where Water Flows, Equality Grows.”
Representing the state governor, Bassey Otu, at the event held at Edgerly Memorial Girls Secondary School, the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Bong Duke, said the initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to providing inclusive and sustainable water, sanitation and hygiene services.
He noted that improved access to potable water remains critical to the well-being of students, particularly girls, who often face challenges linked to water scarcity, poor sanitation and inadequate menstrual hygiene facilities.
“Access to safe water is not only an infrastructure priority but also a catalyst for better health, education and economic opportunities,” he said.
Duke added that the government would continue to invest in resilient water systems and called for partnerships with relevant stakeholders to strengthen water service delivery across the state.
As part of the programme, the government commissioned solar-powered boreholes at Edgerly Memorial Girls Secondary School and Government Girls Secondary School, Big Qua, as well as a newly constructed solar-powered borehole with overhead tank and reticulation network at Academy Primary School, Mayne Avenue.
The projects were executed by the Cross River State Ministry of Water Resources as part of efforts to strengthen water infrastructure in schools, especially those serving girls.
The Commissioner for Water Resources, Bassey Mensah, said the initiative would enhance hygiene practices, reduce the burden of water sourcing on students and create a more conducive learning environment.
He stressed that sustainable water infrastructure plays a vital role in improving public health and advancing gender equality in communities.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr Okon Ita, highlighted the challenges faced by many schoolchildren, particularly girls, in accessing water, noting that the projects would help address those concerns.
The event also featured technical presentations and goodwill messages from stakeholders, who emphasised the need for sustained collaboration to achieve improved water access and sanitation outcomes across the state.
