Communities earmarked for intervention under the Nigeria Climate Adaptation-Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB) have expressed frustration over the delay in the commencement of erosion and flood control works, warning that recurring flash floods continue to endanger lives, property and livelihoods.

The concerns were raised during an inspection of proposed NEWMAP-EIB project sites by the Oyo State Project Implementation Unit (SPIU), led by the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto.

During the visit, residents told the delegation that although several inspection teams had visited their communities over the years, no physical work had commenced.

They said recent flash floods had worsened their predicament, with overflowing streams and severe erosion threatening homes, roads, businesses and farmlands.

According to the residents, the prolonged delay has left many communities vulnerable whenever heavy rainfall occurs, while fears of further environmental disasters continue to grow.

They appealed to the Federal Government to expedite the commencement of the NEWMAP-EIB intervention, describing the project as critical to protecting lives, restoring damaged infrastructure and mitigating the impact of flooding and erosion.

The residents warned that any further delay would continue to expose their communities to avoidable risks and economic losses.

Responding, Aderinto acknowledged the concerns of the affected communities, describing their impatience as understandable in view of the devastation caused by repeated flooding.

He assured the residents that the Oyo State Government had fulfilled all conditions required for the project’s take-off, including the provision of counterpart support and the completion of the technical, environmental and social safeguard requirements.

The commissioner reiterated the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to ensuring the implementation of the project, adding that the state would continue to engage the Federal Government and development partners to facilitate its commencement.

“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 fulfilled its obligations under the project framework and remains committed to ensuring that implementation begins.

“We will formally convey the concerns expressed by these communities and the urgency of their situation to the Federal Government and other relevant stakeholders for the necessary action,” Aderinto said.

He appealed to residents to remain patient and continue supporting government efforts, assuring them that their cooperation would be vital to the successful execution of the project once work begins.