The Federal Government has confirmed that Ogun State is fully prepared to benefit from the Nigeria Climate Adaptation – Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB), following the payment of a ₦500 million counterpart fund by the Prince Dapo Abiodun administration.
National Project Coordinator of NEWMAP-EIB, Engr. Ayuba Anda Yalaks, disclosed this in Abeokuta during an inspection visit to erosion sites across the state. He said the payment satisfied one of the major requirements of the European Investment Bank (EIB), which is co-financing the project.
Engr. Yalaks, who led the Federal and State Project Management teams to erosion-prone communities in Ijebu Ode, Sagamu, and Ado-Odo/Ota, assured that the state would get both technical guidance and financial support to mitigate flood and erosion threats.
Receiving the team on behalf of Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, alongside the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Ola Oresanya, and that of Budget and Planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, said the payment underscored the state’s commitment to safeguarding residents and property from environmental hazards.
They stressed the need for preparedness, noting that Ogun remains vulnerable to downstream flooding due to its position on the Ogun River basin and proximity to Oyan Dam.
Also speaking, the State Project Coordinator, Engr. Ismail Adenuga, explained that the inspection was to assess damages and design lasting solutions for the affected communities.
Some residents, including Abiodun Olubajo, Banuso Oyeyinka, Abiodun Olaloko, Kayode Bello and Funmilayo Egbeleye, commended both the state and federal governments for the intervention. They expressed relief that government action would soon restore normalcy and protect their lives and livelihoods.
