The Network

Calabar, Cross River State — October 21, 2025

FEMinWASH, in collaboration with the Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and the State Planning Commission joined the global community to commemorate Global Handwashing Day 2025 at PCN Primary School, Ikot Mbo, Tinapa Road, Odukpani LGA. Held under the theme “Be a Handwashing Hero,” the event brought together government officials, development partners, teachers, and pupils to promote handwashing as a simple yet powerful way to prevent disease and save lives. 

FEMinWASH Vice Chairperson, FEMinWASHster Angela Ogboaka, in her welcome address, explained the significance of Global Handwashing Day and encouraged pupils to make cleanliness a daily routine both in school and at home. Representing the Chairperson of SUBEB, Retired Magistrate Fidelia Okpo Ene, Mr. Archibong Okon Archibong the Director Quality Assurance SUBEB said the event aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals on good health and sanitation. He noted that SUBEB has provided water facilities in several schools and plans to add toilets and laboratories in others to improve learning environments.  He urged teachers to make handwashing a habit among pupils, adding, “In SUBEB we say, if you don’t wash your hands, don’t eat.”

Representing the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Helen Ejue described the pupils as “handwashing heroes” and advised them to wash their hands before and after class, during breaks, and when they return home. She commended FEMinWASH, SUBEB, and partners for their commitment to child health and hygiene education. Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Vice Chairman and CEO of the State Planning Commission, Mr. Igiri Philip reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to integrating hygiene promotion into the state’s development agenda, describing handwashing as “a simple but powerful act that saves lives.”

Speaking for the Commissioner for Water Resources, Mr. Aneja Tawo emphasized that access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of public health. He said the Ministry, as the state’s lead WASH agency, has been working with SUBEB to expand borehole projects across local government areas and is exploring surface-water supply solutions for schools facing underground-water challenges. He pledged continued partnership with FEMinWASH, SUBEB, and other stakeholders to extend similar initiatives to more schools and communities.

In her keynote address, FEMinWASH Chairperson, FEMinWASHster Iquo Eyo, reaffirmed the network’s commitment to promoting gender inclusion in WASH services and empowering women to lead hygiene advocacy. She noted that teaching children early helps “catch them young” and build a culture of cleanliness and health. The Head Teacher of PCN Primary School, Ikot Mbo, Mrs. Offiong Eyo Morris, appreciated the organizers for choosing the school to host the event but appealed for improved security following vandalization of school facilities. A representative of the WASH Media Network covered the event, describing it as a model of collaboration that translates awareness into daily hygiene action.

Scholastica Ferox, who represented the WASH Media Network and a FEMINWASHSTER, covered the event and commended the collaboration for translating awareness into community action. During the outreach, she identified a suspected case of child abuse and has since reported it to the appropriate authorities for follow-up and protection of the affected child.

To encourage sustained hygiene practice, FEMinWASH donated a handwashing station and instructional poster demonstrating proper handwashing steps to the school.

FEMinWASHster Glory Edet gave a closing remark stating that it’s important to have female representation in all sectors and in all structures within these sectors. She appreciated all who supported the event, the school, children and other persons at the event.

Global Handwashing Day, celebrated annually on October 15, raises awareness about handwashing with soap as one of the most affordable and effective ways to promote health and save lives