Speaking after the commissioning and handing over of the borehole facility, the Clan Head, HRH Omin Omin, expressed gratitude.
By Emmanuel Ita
Residents of Mbat community in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State have commended the Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene Agency (RUWATSSA) for making the 2025 World Toilet Day memorable for them by commissioning a solar-powered borehole opposite Twist Plaza.
The event attracted residents, government officials, WASH partners, civil society groups and community leaders, and focused on sanitation, access to clean water and the need for stronger community ownership of public facilities.
Speaking after the commissioning and handing over of the borehole facility, the Clan Head, HRH Omin Omin, expressed gratitude.
Represented by Chief Joseph Bassey, Mbat Community Village Head, he assured stakeholders of continued collaboration with WASH agencies to address gaps in sanitation and water access.
The Mbat Community Youth Leader, Mr Etim Ene Eyo, described the project as a response to a long-standing need, particularly during the dry season.
Earlier, the keynote address was delivered by the General Manager of RUWATSSA, Hon Sunday Oko, who spoke on strengthening sanitation systems and expanding access to clean water across the State.
Hon Oko urged residents to see the borehole as a shared community asset. According to him, “If you don’t have water, it is as good as not having a toilet.” He explained that communities without safe toilets and a reliable water supply experience higher disease burdens and economic disadvantages.
Concluding, he condemned open defecation and called for greater engagement of community leaders and residents to address the rising challenges associated with the practice.
Relatively, the Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area, Chief Ukpong Etim Asido, welcomed participants and expressed appreciation to development partners for their continued support.
Represented by Mr Asuquo Effiong, a Director, Chief Asido highlighted the impact of inadequate access to clean water on households, schools and local businesses.
Mr John of Toilet Pride made a presentation on the importance of youth involvement in sanitation advocacy.
The highlight of the event was showcasing a documentary that depicted sanitation challenges across various communities, including open defecation, contaminated water sources and unsafe waste disposal practices. The documentary also showcased ongoing WASH interventions across the state, reinforcing the message that sanitation challenges affect everyone.
