By Folake Adebudo
In a decisive and proactive move, the Edo State Government, through the Edo State Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency (EdoFEWMA), has continued its comprehensive strategy to address the projected flood threats outlined in the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook released by the
Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
With NIHSA identifying several Communities in Edo as high and moderate flood-risk zones, the State has wasted no time in mounting a robust, community-focused response to protect lives, livelihoods, and critical infrastructures.
Guided by a firm commitment to disaster risk reduction, EdoFEWMA has intensified its
multi-pronged action plan that places a premium on early intervention, community involvement, and infrastructure resilience. The Agency is ramping up public sensitisation campaigns Statewide, leveraging data and local insights to educate residents on the importance of environmental hygiene, especially the need to keep floodwater infrastructures clear as peak flood season approaches.
The Chief Executive Officer of EdoFEWMA, Hon. Ahmed Musa Momoh, recently conducted a series of technical inspections across flood-prone areas including Gapiona Pond 6 and 7, Amagba- Ogunmwenyi Boundary Road and Sam Excellence Atekha Pond. These visits aimed to assess vulnerabilities, inspect ongoing desilting operations, and engage directly with local communities.
During the inspection, Hon. Momoh expressed concern over the continued practice of waste disposal into flood water infrastructures, warning that such actions undermine the functionality of drainage systems and increase the risk of severe flooding. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that all predicted high-risk zones receive urgent attention.
“Governor Okpebholo envisions an Edo where residents live free from the threats of flood and erosion, a safe and resilient State where development is not hindered by preventable disasters,” Hon. Momoh stated. He further assured that efforts in Benin City will be replicated in other vulnerable regions across the State, with an emphasis on timely execution and collaboration with other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies
(MDAs).
Edo State’s early and coordinated interventions serve as a model for effective flood preparedness and disaster risk governance in Nigeria.
The State Government continues to lead by example, demonstrating that with the right
policies, technical oversight, and community involvement, the risks of seasonal flooding
can be effectively mitigated to protect both people and infrastructures.
