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The Enugu State Government has Established an Erosion Task Force to Tackle Flooding In a bid to combat and minimize the effects of flooding in the region. Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the State Secretary, made this announcement during a meeting with key stakeholders and task force members in Enugu on Friday.
According to recent reports, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NHSA) have issued warnings regarding potential flooding in certain areas of the state. The flooding is anticipated to fall within the range of low to moderate-risk flooding.
Among the local government areas at a heightened risk of flooding are Enugu East, Enugu South, Enugu North, Nkanu East, Nsukka, Udi, Ezeagu, Nkanu West, Igboeze North, Igboeze South, Igbo-Etiti, Oji River, Uzo Uwani, Aninri, Awgu, and Isi Uzo.
The task force responsible for addressing the situation comprised individuals from various professional agencies within the state. These agencies include the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and Enugu State Waste Management Authority (ESWAMA), among others.
Joining the effort were the Enugu State Ministry of Health, Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Town Planning Authority, the Chairmen of the affected council areas, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), among others.
Addressing the forecasts made by the two agencies, Onyia emphasised that the state government has begun reinforcing various facilities in order to confront the anticipated erosion and environmental challenges in the state.
Onyia stressed the need for residents to refrain from erecting structures on waterways, disposing of waste and refuse in drainage systems, and deliberately obstructing canals.
Noting the governor’s worries in light of the predictions, Onyia mentioned that Dr. Peter Mbah took quick action by issuing directives for the formation of a task force dedicated to ensuring the safety of the citizens and their belongings.
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‘This state government launched into action not only to forestall the environmental disaster but to also draw up a sustainable plan on strategic engagement of future disasters.’
‘The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), in its 2023 seasonal climate prediction, warned that the rainfall this year will be more intensive this year in most parts of the country.’
‘Enugu State is among the states it said will experience extended rainfall and will likely record 1,300 millimetres to 2,000 millimetres of rainfall this year,’ Onyia said.
Providing further context, Onyia stated that the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency’s annual flood outlook report specifies that 224 local governments are anticipated to be at a moderate risk of flooding.
‘Flood is one of the most devastating disasters in the world and a frequent threat to life, property, economy and environment.’
‘Sequel to this predictions, the Governor considered it very pertinent to establish a taskforce for drainage, clearing of debris, dredging of waterways, and identification of buildings constructed on waterways.’
‘And when we identify these buildings, we will take necessary actions.’
Onyia stated that the government’s initiatives are intended to function as an emergency preparedness strategy, encompassing not only the immediate 2023 flooding but also extending preparedness for future instances.
‘As a result of this, we’ve been all invited to this maiden meeting to come up with the constituted force that will be authorized to commence work immediately in the state.’
‘A letter was written to us clearly caving out the risk-prone areas within Enugu State. That’s why the specific local government chairmen whose areas are affected are seated here today and we’re trying to find ways so that we don’t lose our citizens,’ he added.
Onyia urged public cooperation with the task force in identifying buildings on waterways, evacuating illegal structures, and clearing blockages to mitigate erosion and protect lives
