NEMA, World Bank Flag Off Emergency Response Project In Ondo – Independent Newspaper Nigeria

By Pune Media On Aug 10, 2025

BOLU-OLU ESHO

National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the World Bank Group on Sunday explained that Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) project in Ondo State is to check flooding in seven selected states.

This was revealed when Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa received the delegation of from the two organizations in his office in Akure ahead of the flagged off ceremony.

Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that his administration was intentional and deliberate in preventing emergency situations, especially flooding, and would continue to adopt proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.

Appreciating the selection of the state among the seven states benefiting from the project, Aiyedatiwa noted that the proactive stance and the commitment of his administration to disaster prevention were contributory to the privilege being enjoyed by the state.

He said: “We are intentional and deliberate about preventing emergencies, especially in the area of flood control.

“The Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Infrastructure are working together to deploy our swamp buggy machine for extensive channelization before the rains start.

“This is why we have largely been spared of major flooding this year, except for rising water levels in riverine areas.”

Buttressing his claim, Governor Aiyedatiwa recalled the state’s swift response to a recent damaged done by windstorm at Akure Airport tower, when normal operations were restored within three days to avoid disruption of air travel.

However, he lamented the incessant sea incursion at Aiyetoro community, describing it as a pathetic situation that had defied past measures.

Governor Aiyedatiwa said: “The Aiyetoro case is a major problem that requires careful design. Nothing concrete had been done before now, but with the current approach, I believe we will finally provide a lasting solution for Aiyetoro and other affected communities.”

For sustenance of efforts being made by the government to check flooding in the state, the governor urged residents to refrain from dumping waste in drainage channels or erecting structures on waterways.

In his address, the NEMA’s Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting, Mr. Badele Onimode, explained that the EPR project, supported by the World Bank, was designed to help Ondo State develop a robust emergency response plan.

He assured that the project would involve hazard mapping, community sensitization, data collection and analysis, and training of residents on appropriate response measures during disasters.

According to him, “This project is taking place in only seven states in Nigeria, and Ondo was chosen because of the state government’s commitment to disaster preparedness. The World Bank will also identify specific projects in the state for possible support.”

Onimode, therefore, appealed to the state government to ensure integration of the sustainability of the project into its long-term development plans.

Speaking on the role of the World Bank in the project, Mr. Francis Nkoka explained that the institution’s mandate is not only to provide financial assistance to both the state and federal governments, but also to offer technical support.

He said: “In our discussions with NEMA, we recognized the need to place strong emphasis on preparedness. However, we also understand that, despite our best efforts, disasters can still occur. Therefore, we must also strengthen the capacity to respond effectively when they happen.”

Nkoka assured that the World Bank would work closely with NEMA to guide the process, offering technical expertise in preparedness assessments as well as in enhancing emergency response capabilities.

Present at parley are Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Bayo Philip, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, among others.