We Are Not Relenting on Erosion Control, Delta Govt

By Admin 

The Delta State Government has said it is not relenting on erosion control efforts at the Ogbeozoma, Vanguard, and Amachai communities, adding that efforts are ongoing to secure the commencement of intervention aimed at tackling the severe gully erosion in the areas.

Speaking in an interview, the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ejiro Jamani, said the Oborevwori administration had partnered with the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP), a climate adaptation initiative under the ministry, to address the environmental challenges facing the affected communities.

He also disclosed that the state government is working with the European Investment Bank (EIB) with a view to supporting the project as a donor agency.

Jamani revealed that representatives of the European Investment Bank and the Federal Project Management Unit recently visited Delta State on an on-the-spot assessment assignment.

He said, "They came to Delta because of our continuous agitation and concern over the suffering of our people as a result of these catastrophic gullies."

The Commissioner noted that the state government had fulfilled all its obligations required for the project, including the payment of counterpart funding amounting to N1 billion.

He explained that, unlike conventional state projects, donor-funded interventions must undergo rigorous procedures before implementation can begin.

"This is not a situation where a state government approves a project, awards a contract, and moves straight to site. There are procurement procedures, engineering designs, community engagement processes, Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs), and several other requirements that must be completed."

He continued, "Accredited engineering firms engaged by NEWMAP and the EIB have already completed the engineering designs for the proposed intervention. Delta State had funded the engineering design process, geotechnical investigations, ESMP preparation, and other necessary consultancies."

He said the completed designs had been transmitted to the National Project Coordinator in Abuja for approval before onward submission to the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and the European Investment Bank.

He appealed to the donor agencies and relevant authorities to expedite the approval process to enable work to commence.

While acknowledging the fears of residents living near the erosion sites, he urged them to remain calm and appreciate the efforts being made by the state government.

He said, "The people are living in fear, and we understand their concerns. However, they should know that the Delta State Government is not sleeping on this issue.We are doing everything possible to ensure the project is approved and implemented."