Some Journalists in Cross River State have called on Governor Senator Bassey Otu to urgently assent to the 2024 Water Bill.

They described the legislation as a critical step toward ensuring safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) across the state.

The appeal, led by the WASH Media Network, was made yesterday during a three-day capacity-building workshop held in Ogoja.

The event was organized under the UK’s International Development Programme and implemented by Self Help Africa to strengthen WASH systems in the region.
Speaking on the sidelines, Treasurer of WASH Media Network, Archibong Jeremiah, emphasized the pressing need for the bill’s passage.

“Every day of delay stalls critical reforms that would improve public health and strengthen the Ministry of Water Resources,” he said. “This bill is not just about regulation, it’s about saving lives, ensuring clean water, and maintaining our Open Defecation Free (ODF) status in vulnerable communities.”

Jeremiah also warned that without a sustainability framework, which the bill is designed to provide, six local government areas that had achieved ODF status have already backslid.

He praised self help africa’s recent intervention in Yala LGA.
The Water Bill, passed by the Cross River State House of Assembly earlier this year, remains unsigned by the executive.

Thomas Aruku, who sponsored the bill and represents Ogoja State Constituency, confirmed it is awaiting the governor’s assent.

Another WASH Media member, Frankie Ifop, highlighted the bill’s potential to unlock international support and investment.

“Once signed, this bill will attract donor funding, drive sustainable development, and support the achievement of SDG 6 universal access to water and sanitation,” Ifop said.
The proposed Water Bill seeks to regulate water usage, protect water sources, and promote conservation efforts across Cross River State.

Experts argue that timely implementation will improve health outcomes, support economic growth, and protect the environment.

The WASH Media Network’s call to action underscores growing concern that bureaucratic delays could jeopardize the state’s progress toward sustainable and equitable water access.