Oyo Intensifies Flood, Erosion Control as OYONEWMAP Begins Statewide Project Inspection

Oyo Intensifies Flood, Erosion Control as OYONEWMAP Begins Statewide Project Inspection

In a decisive move to tackle flooding, erosion, and environmental degradation, the Oyo State Government, through the Nigeria Climate Adaptation–Erosion and Watershed Project–European Investment Bank (OYONEWMAP–EIB), has commenced a comprehensive inspection of stormwater management and erosion control sites across the state.

The statewide inspection, which covers all three senatorial districts, is aimed at validating earlier assessments and gauging the preparedness of benefiting communities for project implementation under the NEWMAP–EIB initiative.

Speaking during the exercise, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Barr. (Hon.) Seun Ashamu, described the NEWMAP–EIB as a landmark national programme designed to address erosion, restore degraded lands, and strengthen climate resilience across Nigeria. Supported by the European Investment Bank, the project is expected to benefit over 750,000 people nationwide and create more than 25,000 jobs by 2030.

“Oyo State is privileged to be among the participating states, and we are fully committed to ensuring that our people experience these benefits in real, measurable ways,” Ashamu said. “Through this project, we aim to protect lives and livelihoods, improve flood control, reform waste and sanitation systems, and build climate-resilient communities across the state.”

The Commissioner emphasized that the initiative, championed under the visionary leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, represents a long-term investment in environmental sustainability and the collective well-being of Oyo residents.

“Erosion remains one of the most pressing environmental challenges confronting the nation, Oyo State inclusive. Our field visits will help us evaluate the situation, design effective interventions, and reaffirm our commitment to a cleaner, safer, and more resilient state,” he added.

Barr. Ashamu further disclosed that the State Government has fulfilled its counterpart funding and other obligations to ensure the smooth take-off of the project. He noted that Oyo State played an active role in the project’s recent national launch in Abuja, aligning with the programme’s broader objectives of improving livelihoods, promoting climate adaptation, and protecting the environment.

The inspection team, led by the Commissioner and the State Project Coordinator, Barr. Tayo Ayoade, alongside members of the State Project Management Unit (SPMU), visited several erosion-prone areas, including:

• Obananko, Cele Area, Oyo (Oyo West LGA)
• Fedomu Area, Igbeti (Olorunsogo LGA)
• Erosion Site within LAUTECH, Ogbomoso
• Ebu Angelu Area (Atiba LGA)
• Maje Stream, Oluyole (Ibadan South West LGA)
• Aborerin, Eruwa (Ibarapa East LGA)

Community leaders and residents warmly received the inspection team, expressing excitement about the project’s expected impact. Barr. Ashamu commended their cooperation and urged continued community support through proper waste management, avoiding construction on waterways, and active participation in local environmental initiatives.

The OYONEWMAP–EIB inspection exercise underscores Oyo State’s determination to strengthen its environmental management systems, mitigate the effects of climate change, and create a safer, greener future for all residents.

E-signed:
Mrs. Bukola Bakare
Communication Officer, OYONEWMAP
November 7, 2025