Aiyedatiwa reiterates commitment to emergency response

Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has reiterated his administration’s commitment in preventing emergency situations, especially flooding, to safeguard lives and property in the state.

Aiyedatiwa stated this on Sunday while receiving a delegation from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the World Bank Group ahead of the flag-off for the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) project in Akure.

The governor described Ondo State’s inclusion among the seven states selected for the project as a privilege.

He noted that it was not because the state was the most prone to disasters, but due to its proactive stance and commitment to disaster prevention.

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

“The Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure are working together to deploy our swamp buggy machines for extensive channelisation before the rains start.

“This is why we have largely been spared of flooding this year, except for rising water levels in riverine areas,” he said.

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

“The Ayetoro 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 Ayetoro and other affected communities,” Aiyedatiwa said.

Earlier, NEMA’s Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting, Mr Bandele Onimode, said that the EPR project, supported by the World Bank was designed to help Ondo State develop a robust emergency response plan.

According to him, the project will involve hazard mapping, community sensitisation, data collection and analysis, and training 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 appealed to the state government to ensure the sustainability of the project by integrating it into its long-term development plans.

Speaking on the project, Mr Francis Nkoka, Senior Disaster Risk Management Specialist, World Bank, explained that the institution’s mandate was 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,” he said.

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.