- as World Bank flags off response project
Ondo State Government has cried out over the worrisome recurring sea incursion ravaging, and sweeping away the once famous Ayetoro community in the coastal area of the state.
Indeed Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Sunday lamented the long-standing problematic sea incursion which he described as a pathetic situation that had defied past measures.
The governor lamented while receiving a delegation from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the World Bank Group during a courtesy visit, ahead of the planned flag-off of the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) project in the state.
According to Aiyedatiwa, “The Aiyetoro case is a major problem that requires careful design. Nothing concrete had been done before now.”
However, he noted, “but with the current approach, I believe we will finally provide a lasting solution for Aiyetoro and other affected communities.”
Meanwhile, he said his administration is intentional and deliberate in preventing emergency situations, especially flooding, and will continue to adopt proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.
Welcoming the team, Aiyedatiwa 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.
“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 channelization 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,” the governor said.
The governor 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.
He urged residents to support government efforts by refraining from dumping waste into drainage channels or erecting structures that could block waterways and worsen flooding.
Earlier, NEMA’s Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting, Mr. Badele Onimode, explained that the EPR project, supported by the World Bank, is designed to help Ondo State develop a robust emergency response plan.
According to him, the project will involve hazard mapping, community sensitization, 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 appealed to the 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, Mr. 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 recognized 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 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.
In attendance were Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Bayo Philip, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, among others.
