Governor Bassey Otu has signed four key bills into law aimed at strengthening healthcare, education, and sanitation systems in Cross River State.

The newly enacted laws include the Cross River State Hospital Management Board Law, 2026, which establishes a central body to oversee public secondary health facilities and introduces management committees for general hospitals.

The legislation also provides for the regulation and registration of traditional medical practitioners under the supervision of the state Ministry of Health to improve service delivery.

Also assented to is the Open Defecation (Prohibition) Law, 2026, designed to curb waterborne diseases and promote hygiene.

The law mandates the provision of toilet facilities in residential buildings, business premises, and public spaces, with provisions for gender sensitivity and accessibility for persons with disabilities.

It further creates a State Task Group on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) to drive enforcement and ensure compliance.

In the education sector, the governor approved the Cross River State Senior Secondary Education Board Law, 2026, establishing a dedicated board to manage state-owned senior secondary schools and enhance administrative efficiency. The move is expected to position the state to access federal education intervention funds.

Another component of the reform package is the establishment of the Cross River State College of Health Sciences, Management and Technology, which replaces the former College of Health Technology and upgrades it to a polytechnic with expanded academic scope.

According to the governor, the institution is expected to strengthen training capacity in health-related fields, align with national standards, and attract additional funding opportunities.

Otu described the new laws as part of a broader reform strategy to address socio-economic challenges, including healthcare delivery, environmental sustainability, and development needs across the state.

He also commended the Cross River State House of Assembly, led by Elvert Ayambem, for its legislative efforts, noting that collaboration between the executive and legislative arms has facilitated the passage of people-focused policies.