Communities captured under the Nigeria Climate Adaptation-Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB) intervention have expressed growing frustration over the prolonged delay in the commencement of the erosion and flood control project, saying repeated flash floods have continued to expose them to danger and uncertainty.
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.
The team visited the affected communities to assess the situation and interact with residents.
During the visit, many residents openly expressed their disappointment, stating that they had received several inspection teams over the years but were yet to witness the commencement of physical construction.
According to them, the recent flash floods across parts of the state have worsened their plight, with overflowing streams and severe erosion threatening homes, roads, businesses, and farmlands. They lamented that the continuous delay in implementing the project has left them living in fear whenever heavy rainfall occurs.
The residents therefore called on the Federal Government to fast-track the commencement of the NEWMAP-EIB intervention, describing the project as a lifeline capable of protecting lives, restoring damaged infrastructure, and preventing further environmental disasters. They noted that any further delay would continue to expose their communities to the devastating effects of flooding and erosion.
Responding to their concerns, Hon. Ademola Aderinto acknowledged the anxiety and impatience of the affected communities, noting that their concerns were understandable considering the devastating effects of flooding in recent years.
The Commissioner assured residents that the Oyo State Government has fulfilled all the conditions required of the state for the commencement of the NEWMAP-EIB project. He explained that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has provided the necessary counterpart support and completed the technical, environmental, and social safeguard requirements expected of participating states.
He stressed that the state government remains committed to ensuring that the project becomes a reality and will continue to engage with the relevant Federal Government authorities and development partners to facilitate the commencement of 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,” Hon. Aderinto said.
He appealed to residents to remain calm and continue supporting government efforts, assuring them that their cooperation would be essential to the smooth execution of the project once construction begins.
The Commissioner reaffirmed that the NEWMAP-EIB project remains a major intervention designed to address erosion, improve stormwater management, reduce flooding, and strengthen climate resilience in vulnerable communities across Oyo State.