Aiyedatiwa reiterates preparedness for flooding as NEMA, World Bank flag off project in Ondo

Ondo State Governor Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa says his administration is intentional and deliberate in preventing emergency situations, especially flooding, and will continue to adopt proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.

Aiyedatiwa said this on Sunday, August 10, 2025, while receiving a delegation from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the World Bank Group during a courtesy visit, ahead of the flag-off ceremony for the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) project in Ondo State.

Welcoming the team, the governor described Ondo State’s inclusion among the seven states selected for the project as a privilege, noting that it was not because the state is the most prone to disasters, but due to its proactive stance and the commitment of his administration to disaster prevention.

Aiyedatiwa said: “We are intentional and deliberate about preventing emergencies, especially in the area of flood control.

“The Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Infrastructure are working together to deploy our swamp buggy machine for extensive channelisation before the rains start. This is why we have largely been spared of major flooding this year, except for rising water levels in riverine areas.”

He also highlighted the state’s swift response to a recent incident where strong winds damaged the Akure Airport tower, restoring normal operations within three days to avoid disruption of air travel.

Governor Aiyedatiwa further lamented the long-standing sea incursion in Aiyetoro community, describing it as a pathetic situation that had defied past measures.

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“The Aiyetoro case is a major problem that requires careful design. Nothing concrete had been done before now, but with the current approach, I believe we will finally provide a lasting solution for Aiyetoro and other affected communities,” Aiyedatiwa added.

The governor, however, urged residents to support government efforts by refraining from dumping waste into drainage channels or erecting structures that could block waterways and worsen flooding.

Speaking, NEMA’s Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting, Badele Onimode, explained that the EPR project, supported by the World Bank, is designed to help Ondo State develop a robust emergency response plan.

Onimode said the project will involve hazard mapping, community sensitisation, data collection and analysis, and training of residents on appropriate response measures during disasters.

“This project is taking place in only seven states in Nigeria, and Ondo was chosen because of the state government’s commitment to disaster preparedness. The World Bank will also identify specific projects in the state for possible support,” Onimode said.

He also appealed to the Ondo State Government to ensure the sustainability of the project by integrating it into its long-term development plans.

On the role of the World Bank in the project, Francis Nkoka explained that the institution’s mandate is not only to provide financial assistance to both the state and federal governments, but also to offer technical support.

“In our discussions with NEMA, we recognised the need to place strong emphasis on preparedness. However, we also understand that, despite our best efforts, disasters can still occur. Therefore, we must also strengthen the capacity to respond effectively when they happen,” Nkoka stated.

He added that the World Bank would work closely with NEMA to guide the process, offering technical expertise in preparedness assessments as well as in enhancing emergency response capabilities.

The Star