Flood-Hit Oyo Communities Decry Delay In NEWMAP Project, Seek FG’s Intervention
Communities captured under the Nigeria Climate Adaptation-Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB) have expressed growing frustration over the prolonged delay in the commencement of the erosion and flood control project, urging the Federal Government to expedite its implementation.
The concerns were raised during an inspection tour of the proposed NEWMAP-EIB 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 told the delegation that although several inspection teams had visited their communities over the years, construction work had yet to begin.
They lamented that recurring flash floods had continued to worsen erosion, destroy infrastructure and threaten lives, homes, businesses and farmlands.
According to the residents, the persistent delay in executing the project has left many communities vulnerable whenever heavy rainfall occurs.
They appealed to the Federal Government to fast-track the commencement of the NEWMAP-EIB intervention, describing it as a critical project capable of reducing flood risks, restoring damaged infrastructure and protecting lives and property.
Responding to the concerns, Commissioner Aderinto acknowledged the residents’ frustrations, saying the state government understood the hardship caused by repeated flooding.
He assured the affected communities that the Oyo State Government had fulfilled all the conditions required for the commencement of the project, including the provision of counterpart support and the completion of all technical, environmental and social safeguard requirements.
According to him, the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde remains committed to ensuring the project takes off and will 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 urged residents to remain calm and continue supporting government efforts, assuring them that their cooperation would be vital 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.
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