The Cross River State Government, through the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWATSSA) and the Ministry of Water Resources, in partnership with Self Help Africa (SHA), is set to convene a Stakeholders’ Meeting under the WASH System for Health (WS4H) Programme on Monday, 27 October 2025, at the Obubra Local Government Council Hall.

The meeting, which is scheduled to commence at 9:00 a.m. prompt, will feature interactive sessions aimed at deepening collaboration, promoting sustainability, and enhancing the impact of WASH initiatives across rural communities in the state.

Ahead of the event, the Chairman of Obubra Local Government Area, Hon. Kingsley Arikpo, commended the partnership between the state government and Self Help Africa, pledging the council’s full support to ensure the success of the programme.

Hon. Arikpo described the meeting as both timely and strategic, noting that improving access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene remains a core development priority for rural communities in Obubra.

“You are welcome, and thank you for choosing Obubra,” Hon. Arikpo said, assuring the organisers of the council’s readiness to ensure a successful event.

Leading the advance team to fine-tune preparations and engage local stakeholders, Mr Felix Irek explained that Obubra was selected as the host venue due to the high incidence of cholera previously recorded in the area.

He appealed for continued collaboration and support from the local council, stressing that the WS4H Programme seeks to strengthen existing WASH systems to improve public health outcomes across communities.

“This programme will expand access to WASH services and improve the overall health of our people,” Mr Irek stated, outlining the initiative’s scope, timeline, and expected results.

The advance team also paid a courtesy visit to the Acting Paramount Ruler of Obubra Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty Ovarr Sylvanus Uduma Ovat, who expressed delight at the initiative and pledged traditional support to ensure its success.

Similarly, the Member representing Obubra Constituency II in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Egbe Abeng, lauded the WS4H programme, describing it as a vital intervention toward improving community health and hygiene standards. He also pledged to attend the event in person.

The forthcoming Stakeholders’ meeting is expected to draw key actors from government agencies, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, and community-based groups. Participants will deliberate on strategies to strengthen WASH systems for sustainable and accountable service delivery across Cross River State.

The session will also provide a platform to share best practices and explore innovative approaches for improving access to clean water and sanitation services, especially in vulnerable and underserved communities.