By OLATUNDE AJAYI

Communities in Oyo State selected for intervention under the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project – European Investment Bank initiative (NEWMAP-EIB) have expressed frustration over prolonged delay in commencement of the flood control works.

The NEWMAP-EIB initiative in Oyo State captures several erosion- and flood-prone communities across different local government areas, including Obananko and Cele areas in Oyo West LGA, Ebu Angelu area in Atiba LGA, and Maje Stream in Soka Area, Oluyole LGA.

Other locations are Fedomu area in Igbeti, Olorunsogo LGA; Aborerin in Eruwa, Ibarapa East LGA; and erosion sites within Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) in Ogbomoso.

The Oyo State NEWMAP-EIB Communication Officer, Mrs Bukola Bakare, in a statement on Friday in Ibadan, quoted some residents as expressing their concerns 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, Mr Ademola Aderinto.

She said that the residents claimed that repeated flash floods have continued to expose them to danger and uncertainty.

According to her, many residents openly expressed disappointment, stating that they had hosted several inspection teams over the years, but were yet to witness the commencement of physical work.

“The residents said recent flash floods in parts of the state have worsened their plight, with overflowing streams and severe erosion threatening homes, roads, businesses, and farmlands.

“They lamented that the continued delay in implementing the project has left them living in fear whenever there is heavy rainfall.

“The residents, therefore, called on the Federal Government to fast-track the start of the NEWMAP-EIB intervention, describing the project as a lifeline capable of protecting lives, restoring damaged infrastructure, and preventing further environmental disasters,” Bakare said.

According to them, any further delay would continue to expose their communities to the devastating effects of flooding and erosion.

Responding to their concerns, Aderinto acknowledged the anxiety and impatience of the affected communities, noting that their concerns were understandable given the devastating effects of flooding in recent years.

The commissioner assured residents that the Oyo State Government had fulfilled all the conditions required of the state for the commencement of the NEWMAP-EIB project.

He explained that the administration of Gov. Seyi Makinde had provided the necessary counterpart funding and completed the technical, environmental, and social safeguard requirements expected of participating states.

The commissioner also assured that the state government remained committed to ensuring that the project became a reality and would continue to engage with relevant Federal Government authorities and development partners to facilitate the project execution.

“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.

The commissioner appealed to residents to remain calm and to continue supporting government efforts, assuring them that their cooperation was essential for the smooth execution of the project once construction begins.

Aderinto said that the NEWMAP-EIB project remained a major intervention designed to address erosion, improve stormwater management, reduce flooding, and strengthen climate resilience in vulnerable communities across Oyo State. (NAN)

Update news