Cross River State government has taken a bold step towards advancing gender equality in education with the inauguration of solar-powered boreholes in selected schools across Calabar metropolis.
The initiative, unveiled to commemorate World Water Day 2026, highlights the state’s growing commitment to improving access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), particularly for girls whose education is often disrupted by water scarcity.
Representing Governor Bassey Otu, at the ceremony held at Edgerly Memorial Girls Secondary School, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the state planning commission, Dr. Bong Duke, described the projects as a strategic intervention to remove barriers limiting girls’ access to education and overall wellbeing.
He emphasised that inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities disproportionately affects female students, exposing them to health risks and interrupting their academic progress.
“Water is not only a resource but a catalyst for growth,” he stated, reaffirming the government’s resolve to ensure equitable access to safe water, especially for women and girls.
The governor called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to enhance water service delivery across the state, stressing that sustainable progress in the WASH sector depends on effective partnerships.
The event featured cultural performances and technical sessions that explored the connection between water access and gender equality.
Key presentations included: “l’Water and Gender’ by Mrs. Julie Jumide of Female in WASH (FERinWASH) and ‘How Access to Water Supports Safe and Healthy Menstrual Hygiene Practices’ delivered by Mrs. Alice Egbara of the state Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RWSSA).
As part of the programme, solar-powered water facilities were inaugurated at Government Girls Secondary School, Big Qua and Edgerly Memorial Girls Secondary School.
Additionally, a newly constructed solar-powered borehole with an overhead tank and reticulation network was unveiled at Academy Primary School, Mayne Avenue. The projects were implemented in collaboration with the Borehole Drillers Association of Nigeria.
Executed by the Ministry of Water Resources under the leadership of Commissioner Bassey Offiong Mensah, the initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen water infrastructure in schools and promote inclusive development.
Speaking, the commissioner noted that improved access to water and sanitation not only empowers girls, but also boosts school attendance and enhances community health outcomes.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Okon Ita, highlighted the daily burden faced by young girls in sourcing water, describing it as a major challenge affecting both their wellbeing and education.
In recognition of contributions to improving access to potable water, a Certificate of Recognition was presented to Louis Mesembe Asikpo of LIZMA Table Water.