Oyo tackles flooding, erosion, launches statewide project inspection - Businessday NG

Oyo State in Nigeria has kicked off a thorough inspection of storm water management projects scattered across the state as part of the Nigeria Climate Adaptation–Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP–EIB). This initiative is a big deal nationally, aiming to fight erosion, restore damaged lands, and boost climate resilience across the country. Backed by the European Investment Bank (EIB), the NEWMAP-EIB project is set to benefit over 750,000 people nationwide and is expected to create more than 25,000 jobs by the year 2030. Seun Ashamu, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, shared that the inspection covered all three Senatorial Districts in Oyo State. The visit helped validate earlier assessments and check how ready the communities are to receive the project benefits. Ashamu expressed pride that Oyo is one of the few states chosen for this program and stressed the government’s commitment to turning these efforts into real, tangible gains for the people. The project targets protecting lives, controlling floods, restoring land, reforming waste management, and building climate-resilient communities across the state. According to Ashamu, the NEWMAP–EIB project isn’t just about building infrastructure; it’s a long-term investment focused on safeguarding the future of Oyo’s people. He highlighted the visionary leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde and the role of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources in making sure the program delivers lasting results – creating safer, greener, and more resilient communities. Erosion remains a major environmental challenge in Nigeria, including Oyo, and this inspection aims to better understand the current situation and design effective solutions. The state government has already shown strong commitment by providing counterpart funding and meeting other necessary obligations to get the project up and running smoothly. Oyo also actively took part in the national launch of the project in Abuja, aligning its efforts with the broader goals of improving livelihoods, strengthening climate resilience, and protecting the environment. The inspection team, led by Commissioner Ashamu and State Project Coordinator Tayo Ayoade, visited several erosion-prone communities and project sites. These included areas like Obananko and Cele in Oyo West LGA, Fedomu in Olorunsogo LGA, an erosion site within LAUTECH in Ogbomoso, Ebu Angelu in Atiba LGA, Maje Stream in Oluyole (Ibadan South West LGA), and Aborerin in Ibarapa East LGA. Community members and local leaders welcomed the team warmly, showing excitement and hope for the project’s launch. Ashamu praised the enthusiasm from the communities and urged residents to support the government’s environmental efforts by adopting proper waste disposal methods, avoiding construction on waterways, and actively participating in community-based environmental programs. The collaboration between government and communities is seen as vital to the success of ongoing and future environmental protection activities in Oyo State.