Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu has signed four new laws aimed at strengthening the state’s health system and advancing broader socio-economic reforms. The legislation, signed on Wednesday at the Governor’s Office in Calabar, marks a significant step in the administration’s reform agenda, designed to improve the quality of life for residents.
Governor Otu described the development as a critical milestone, emphasizing the importance of health-related policies. “Anything about health is not a joke. These bills will help our people by ensuring we have the right resources and options available,” he said. The governor praised the State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Elvert Ayambem, for its thorough legislative work and constructive debate that led to the laws’ passage.
A key highlight of the new legislation is the establishment of the Cross River State College of Health Sciences, Management and Technology. This institution replaces the former College of Health Technology and upgrades it to a polytechnic with an expanded academic mandate. The governor also assented to the Cross River State Hospital Management Board Law, 2026, which creates a central body to oversee secondary health facilities. The law also introduces management committees for general hospitals and regulates traditional medical practitioners.
To address sanitation challenges, Governor Otu signed the Open Defecation (Prohibition) Law, 2026. This law mandates the provision of toilet facilities in homes, businesses, and public places, and establishes a State Task Group on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) for enforcement. Additionally, the Cross River State Senior Secondary Education Board Law, 2026, was approved, creating a dedicated body to manage state-owned senior secondary schools and enhance access to federal education intervention funds.
Governor Otu stated that the laws are part of a broader strategy to tackle socio-economic challenges, including rural-urban migration, food security, and environmental sustainability. He reaffirmed his commitment to building internal capacity and reducing dependence on external support, expressing confidence that the laws would accelerate development and strengthen the state’s resilience.
The signing of these laws underscores the sustained synergy between the executive and legislative arms of government, which Governor Otu noted has continued to yield people-oriented policies. He expressed optimism that the impact of the new laws would soon be felt across the state, contributing to its overall development and stability.
