The minister of water resources and sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, on Wednesday acknowledged the challenges faced by the people of Isheri in Ogun State, while on a familiarization visit to Ogun Osun River Basin Development Authority.
Utsev noted that the recent flooding of the area has had a devastating impact on the community and also assured that the Federal Government is committed to addressing the challenges comprehensively.
He further revealed that his ministry will actively collaborate with other relevant ministries and authorities, including the States of Ogun and Lagos, to find effective solutions to the challenges posed by flooding.
The minister explained that climate change has significantly altered the historical data relating to hydrology and emphasized the need to reevaluate the hydrological conditions at the Oyan Dam site. This re-evaluation, according to him, will inform the review of the standard operating procedures for the Oyan Dam.
His words: “In the light of these challenges, my immediate recommendation is to establish a joint technical assessment committee, consisting of representatives from the Federal Government, state governments, and the affected community to work together to assess the situation thoroughly in a transparent manner and develop sustainable solutions.”
He reiterated that an inter-ministerial committee had earlier submitted a comprehensive report on flood management in the entire country, including Ogun State, and the report serves as a broad foundation for efforts to mitigate the impact of flooding in the country.
The minister extended his heartfelt sympathy to the victims of the recent flood and assured the people of his commitment to finding solutions to the challenges faced by Isheri Community and other affected areas
