ASABA: The Delta State Government has earned significant praise from Anda Ayuba Yalaks, the National Project Coordinator of the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project-European Investment Bank (NEWMAP-EIB), for its proactive approach to addressing environmental issues.
The state’s efforts were recently highlighted when Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration approved and released ₦1 billion as a counterpart fund contribution, making Delta State one of the 23 beneficiaries of the European Investment Bank’s intervention.
Yalaks emphasized that this financial commitment demonstrates strong political will and aligns with the expectations for sustainable environmental governance.
The commendation came during a courtesy visit by Yalaks and his delegation from the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU) to Kingsley Emu, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), in Asaba.
Yalaks also shared that an assessment of erosion-prone sites in Delta State revealed serious threats to infrastructure and human lives, making the state eligible for support under the European Investment Bank’s funding conditions.
Delta State has successfully met all the criteria, ensuring that these sites are now ready for investment.
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Emu highlighted the state’s successful projects from the first phase of NEWMAP, such as the Owanta erosion and stormwater management project in Ika North East, as well as the Obomkpa and Ukwu-Nzu erosion sites in Aniocha North Local Government Area.
He further appealed for continued interventions in other ongoing projects and assured the delegation of the state’s unwavering commitment to building climate resilience.
The Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Jamani Tommy Ejiro, also reaffirmed the government’s dedication to environmental sustainability.
He noted that the Governor’s promises to the people of Okpanam were already being fulfilled, with projects like the Amachai/Ogbozoma and Vanguard Area erosion sites receiving approval for intervention.
The meeting was attended by key government officials, including the Commissioner for Transport, Onoriode Agofure;
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Minnie Oseji; and State Project Coordinator, Benedict Nwaokocha, alongside NEWMAP-EIB specialists.
This development underscores Delta State’s commitment to protecting its environment and mitigating the risks posed by erosion, which poses significant challenges to infrastructure and human safety.
