The Ogun State Government has announced that 16 of its 20 local government areas (LGAs) are at high risk of flooding this rainy season, based on forecasts from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET).
The agency predicts that rainfall intensities in these areas could range between 965mm and 1805mm, prompting the government to take precautionary measures.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abeokuta, the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to reduce flooding in the state.
According to him, the state has cleared approximately 988.3 kilometers of rivers, streams, and drainage channels over the past five years. Additionally, about 698 meters of concrete drainage systems and culverts have been constructed to improve water flow and prevent flooding.
Oresanya disclosed upcoming projects aimed at tackling the looming threat, stating, “The State Government is set to create more tributaries for Ogun Rivers and complete the dredging of Opa Aro River. The project will commence in April in phases, starting with the de-silting of the Banku River to Majidun/Mawere.”
He added that previous efforts had already shortened flood retention periods in some areas from six weeks to three weeks last year.
The government has advised residents of communities like Ijebu-Ode, Ota, Owode, Abeokuta, Onihale in Ifo, Sagamu, Iperu, and Ilishan to stay alert and consider relocating to safer areas. These locations are expected to experience flash floods between March and July.
Moreover, individuals living on floodplains, including places such as Isheri, Akute, Warewa, Oke-Afa, Owa and Yemule River banks in Ijebu-Ode, Ifaara, Ebute-Oni, Ayede-Ayila, Makun, Iwopin, and Igele in Ogun Waterside, have been strongly advised to relocate ahead of the predicted coastal floods expected between September and November.
The Commissioner also urged motorists and pedestrians to avoid flooded roads during the rainy season. Community Development Associations were called upon to educate residents about the dangers of building on natural water paths and improper disposal of waste in drainage systems and waterways.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Olugbenga Oyelele, emphasized the need for collective effort in tackling the anticipated floods.
Director of Flood and Erosion Control, Ismail Adenuga, further outlined the ministry’s recent work on re-channeling waterways, improving access roads, and clearing stream paths across various parts of Ogun State.
Meanwhile, Kayode Akinmade, the Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Information and Strategy, praised the Ministry of Environment’s proactive approach and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to mitigating flood-related challenges.
