ross River Moves to Regulate Water Sector, Crack Down on Illegal Borehole Drilling

The Cross River State government has underscored the urgent need to regulate the water sector, announcing plans for a statewide clampdown on illegal borehole drilling.

Commissioner for Water Resources, Barrister Mensah, disclosed this while receiving executives and members of the Borehole Drillers Association in his office.

Mensah revealed that the governor has signed the State Water Regulatory Law of 2025, stressing that all stakeholders must adhere strictly to its provisions.

He warned that the era of operating without proper oversight was over.

“The honeymoon is over for those who have been evading regulations. Going forward, no one will be permitted to circumvent the law,” he said.

The commissioner also expressed disappointment at the conduct of many operators who have taken advantage of residents grappling with unreliable water supply.

He explained that while the governor was initially unaware of the scale of the crisis in the sector, he is now fully informed and committed to reforms.

“The governor is determined to rebuild the water supply system, beginning with a robust legal framework to drive change. Today marks the start of that process,” Mensah stated.

According to him, the Water Regulatory Law is a crucial step toward ensuring all residents have access to clean and safe water, no matter where they live.

He expressed confidence that the new legislation will help establish a sustainable water supply system and ease the difficulties faced by citizens.

In their remarks, the Chairman and Secretary of the Borehole Drillers Association, Prince Edem Nsa and Elder John Enyin, welcomed the new regulatory measures.

Nsa observed that the law would go a long way toward curbing quackery, which has been a persistent problem in the sector.