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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
Residents of flood-prone communities selected for the Nigeria Climate Adaptation-Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB) in Oyo State have expressed frustration over the prolonged delay in the commencement of erosion and flood control works, citing worsening flash floods and increasing environmental risks.
The concerns were raised during an inspection tour of the proposed project sites by the Oyo State Project Implementation Unit (SPIU), led by the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto.
During the visit, residents lamented that despite receiving several inspection teams over the years, physical construction on the project has yet to begin.
They said recurring flash floods have continued to threaten homes, roads, businesses and farmlands, leaving many communities vulnerable whenever heavy rainfall occurs.
The residents urged the Federal Government to fast-track the implementation of the NEWMAP-EIB intervention, describing the project as critical to protecting lives, restoring damaged infrastructure and mitigating the impact of flooding and erosion.
According to them, any further delay would worsen the environmental challenges facing the affected communities.
Responding, Aderinto acknowledged the concerns of the residents, describing their frustration as understandable given the devastating effects of flooding experienced in recent years.
The commissioner assured the communities that the Oyo State Government had fulfilled all conditions required for the commencement of the project, including providing counterpart funding and completing the necessary technical, environmental and social safeguard requirements.
He reiterated Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to ensuring the project takes off and pledged that the state government would continue engaging the Federal Government and development partners to facilitate its implementation.
“We understand the pain and frustration of our people. We have listened carefully to every concern raised during this visit. The Oyo State Government has completed its obligations under the project framework and remains committed to ensuring that implementation begins. We will formally relay your messages and the urgency of your situation to the Federal Government and all relevant stakeholders for necessary action,” Aderinto said.
He appealed to residents to remain calm and continue supporting government efforts, assuring them that their cooperation would be vital to the successful execution of the project once construction begins.
The commissioner added that the NEWMAP-EIB project is designed to tackle erosion, improve stormwater management, reduce flooding and strengthen climate resilience in vulnerable communities across Oyo State.
