Buhari pledges to address erosion, flooding in Niger Delta

President Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday, pledged to address erosion and perennial flooding in Niger Delta communities.

Buhari, who was represented by Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs, Omotayo Alasoadura, said this during the unveiling and handing over of the Ondo Township Erosion Control Works.

He said: “This project underscores Federal Government’s determination and sincerity in tackling problems of its citizens and making life more meaningful for Nigerians.”

He explained that the project would enhance and improve the health status, socio-economic activities and wellbeing of communities in the Niger Delta region.

The President added that the project would offer the community an opportunity to take ownership in ensuring its security, maintenance and sustainability.

He enjoined the people of the community to see the project as their own, guard it jealously and cautioned against abuse through filling the drainage channels with debris and refuse that could lead to another flooding or erosion.

Earlier, Permanent Secretary, Ecological Fund Office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation (OSGF), Dr. Habiba Lawal, who was represented by Director, Soil Erosion and Flood Control, Mathias Eluma, said the project was initiated through a request by the Ondo Town Community Development Union, which sought urgent intervention to arrest the continuous erosion and flooding in the community.

He said: “The resources which the Federal Government had committed to the project must not be wasted.”