Key Points

• Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa take urgent steps to mitigate flooding.

• Edo launches €175 million erosion and watershed adaptation plan.

• IDP camps established across Delta as flood alert intensifies.

In response to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s (NiMet) forecast of heavy rainfall, Edo State has intensified its flood response in South-South Nigeria, focusing on flood-prone regions such as Ekenwan Road, Upper Mission Extension, and Auchi.

Ahmed Momoh, CEO of the Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency (FEWMA), revealed that desilting and awareness campaigns have begun to prevent waterlogging and support early evacuations.

Additionally, Edo has launched a six-month action plan under the €175 million European Investment Bank-funded Nigeria Climate Adaptation – Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB).

Ten percent of this funding will be accessible during the initial phase, contingent on administrative compliance. The state has committed N500 million in counterpart funding to accelerate the rollout.

Delta prepares IDP camps and activates disaster committee

Delta State, recognizing its high flood risk due to its coastal topography, has established Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Isoko North, Bomadi, Ughelli South, and Asaba.

Commissioner for Environment Jamani Ejiro stressed that human activities like blocking water channels and indiscriminate dumping contribute to urban flooding.

“We urge residents to treat their surroundings with care. Clear your drains, and avoid building on waterways,” Ejiro said.

The state has also activated its Flood Disaster Management Committee led by the Secretary to the State Government. Ejiro affirmed that Delta remains proactive, often preparing even before NiMet’s predictions.

Bayelsa residents call for stronger flood prevention measures

In Bayelsa, where residents in Yenagoa’s flood-prone areas like Azikoro and Swali brace for the worst, calls for better flood response in South-South Nigeria are growing.

Over 1.3 million people were displaced nationwide during the 2022 floods, and fears are mounting again as the Epie Creek and River Nun swell.

Environmentalists like Jude Jack and Godwin Ekubo have urged the government to enforce stricter waste management laws and prioritize drainage clearing.

Omuso Omuso, Director General of Bayelsa’s Flood and Erosion Control, confirmed that routine drainage clearing has started, and the government is committed to mitigating the impact.

As rains intensify, communities across the South-South hope that these emergency actions will curb devastation and protect vulnerable lives.