The Enugu State Government has taken proactive measures to tackle the potential erosion and environmental challenges predicted to affect the state in the coming months. This comes after the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NHSA) issued warnings of low to moderate-risk flooding in certain parts of the state.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, made this known during a meeting with stakeholders and members of the newly constituted taskforce responsible for managing and mitigating the impact of the flooding. The taskforce comprises representatives from various professional agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Enugu State Waste Management Authority (ESWAMA), Enugu State Ministry of Health, Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, town planning authority, the chairmen of the affected council areas, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and others.
The SSG emphasized the need for residents to refrain from erecting structures on waterways, dumping waste and refuse in drainage systems, and obstructing canals. He revealed that Governor Peter Mbah expressed concern over the predictions and directed the formation of the taskforce to safeguard lives and property while also developing a sustainable plan to address future disasters.
According to Prof. Onyia, “NiMet’s seasonal climate prediction for 2023 indicates that rainfall will be more intense this year, not only in Enugu State but also in several other parts of the country. Enugu State is projected to experience extended rainfall, with expected totals ranging from 1300 to 2000 millimeters. Additionally, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency has identified Enugu State as one of the 224 local governments within the moderate flood risk areas.”
The SSG stressed that flooding is a devastating disaster that poses significant threats to life, property, the economy, and the environment. As part of the state’s emergency preparedness measures, the taskforce has been established to address drainage issues, clear debris, dredge waterways, and identify buildings constructed on waterways for appropriate action.
Prof. Onyia called on members of the public to cooperate with the taskforce by reporting buildings on waterways, assisting with the evacuation of illegal structures and blocked drainages, and complying with building regulations. He emphasized that proactive environmental management and enforcement of sanitation regulations would help mitigate erosion’s adverse effects, prevent waterborne diseases, and protect the lives of citizens.
Mrs. Chinasa Mbah, the secretary of the taskforce, expressed concern about the erosion and flash floods that have already impacted livelihoods in the state. She urged residents to exercise caution in waste disposal, environmental management, and construction practices, noting that the state is entering the peak rainy season.
Enugu East, Enugu South, Enugu North, Nkanu East, Nsukka, Udi, Ezeagu, Nkanu West, Igboeze North, Igboeze South, Igbo-Etiti, Oji River, Uzo Uwani, Aninri, Awgu, Isi Uzo, and other local government areas are at high risk of flooding, according to the taskforce.
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