In a bid to advance sustainable environmental management and flood control, the Oyo State Government, through the Nigeria Climate Adaptation–Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP–EIB), has commenced a comprehensive inspection of storm water management project sites across the state.
The exercise, which spans the three senatorial districts, is aimed at validating previous assessments and evaluating the readiness of benefiting communities for project implementation under the European Investment Bank (EIB)-supported initiative.
Speaking during the inspection tour, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Barr. Seun Ashamu described the NEWMAP–EIB project as a landmark national programme designed to tackle erosion, restore degraded lands, and strengthen climate resilience across Nigeria.
He revealed that the initiative, supported by the EIB, 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 few participating states, and we are fully committed to ensuring that these benefits reach our people in tangible and meaningful ways. Through this project, we aim to protect lives and livelihoods, improve flood control and land restoration, reform waste and sanitation systems, and build sustainable, climate-resilient communities across the state”, Ashamu said.
The Commissioner emphasized that the NEWMAP–EIB initiative represents more than just infrastructure development, describing it as a long-term investment in protecting the collective future of Oyo residents.
He commended Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to translating the project into real impact by creating safer, greener, and more resilient communities.
“Erosion remains one of the pressing environmental challenges confronting the nation, Oyo State inclusive,” he noted. “Our visit will help us evaluate the current situation, design more effective solutions, and reaffirm our commitment to building a cleaner, safer, and more resilient Oyo State.”
Ashamu revealed that the state government has already fulfilled its counterpart funding obligations and other requirements necessary for the project’s smooth take-off.
He also noted that Oyo State played an active role in the project’s recent national launch in Abuja, ensuring alignment with its objectives of improving livelihoods and protecting the environment.
The inspection team, led by Barrister Ashamu and the State Project Coordinator, Barrister Tayo Ayoade, visited several erosion-prone communities and project sites, including Obananko, Cele Area in 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); and Aborerin, Eruwa (Ibarapa East LGA).
Community members and local government leaders warmly received the team, expressing appreciation and anticipation for the commencement of the projects.
Ashamu urged residents to support the government’s environmental efforts by embracing proper waste disposal practices, avoiding construction on waterways, and participating in community-based environmental programmes.
