BENIN CITY: The Edo State Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency (EdoFEWMA) has launched a major initiative to address perennial flooding in the Ogunmwenyi and Amagba communities.

CEO of EdoFEWMA and Project Coordinator of Edo State NEWMAP-EIB, Hon. Mohammed Bawa Okoyomoh, explained that floodwaters from Gapiona Pond ‘7’ would be channelled directly into the Ogba River, following Governor Monday Okpebholo’s directive to prioritise residents’ welfare.

A high-powered technical team conducted extensive assessments, engaging with local stakeholders to understand the flooding challenges. Okoyomoh assured residents that “the present administration is not just here to observe like the past administration. We are here to act.”

Engineer Asemota Ero noted that unplanned urban encroachment disrupted natural drainage paths, necessitating the approved comprehensive design to channel floodwaters effectively.

Special Advisers Hon. Eugene Utobor and Hon. Johnson Adamu pledged that no part of Edo State would be left behind in developmental initiatives, urging residents’ cooperation.

Pastor Stanley Dave Ighodaro, the Managing Director of Edo State Parks and Gardens Agency, expressed confidence that the direct government intervention would yield lasting results.

Okaighele of Ogunmwenyi, Engineer Newton Edogiawerie, emphasised that Pond ‘7’ collects runoff from several other ponds, which frequently overflow, displacing residents. Mobilisation of equipment for the project is expected in the coming months, marking a milestone in Edo’s fight against flooding and environmental degradation.