Delta Launches Emergency Flood Prevention Drive as Rainfall Threat Looms

The Delta State Government has commenced an extensive drainage and canal desilting across flood-prone communities following warnings by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) of possible flooding in the state this year.

Acting on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s directive, the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) on Monday, inspected ongoing drainage clearing projects in several communities, including Uvwie, Sapele, Ughelli, Agbarho, Ika and Ndokwa.

DESOPADEC Chairman, Olorogun Barr. John Nani, said the intervention is aimed at preventing flood disasters by clearing blocked drains and waterways before peak rainfall begins.

He attributed recurring flooding in many communities to indiscriminate refuse dumping and urged residents to support government efforts by keeping drainage channels free of waste.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DESOPADEC, Chief Festus Ochonogor, described the exercise as the first phase of a statewide flood mitigation programme, noting that the commission would return later in the year for additional desilting works.

Sapele Local Government Chairman, Chief Bright Abeke, commended the governor’s intervention and announced the establishment of a 120-member environmental sanitation committee to monitor drainage channels and discourage illegal waste disposal.

Residents in affected communities welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that the ongoing projects would significantly reduce perennial flooding and protect lives, homes and businesses during the rainy season.