The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to preventing flooding through sustained desilting of waterways, public sensitisation, and strategic erosion control projects.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mr Ademola Aderinto, stated this on Saturday in Ibadan while addressing the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction and the state’s rainy season preparedness.
According to the commissioner, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) forecast indicates that Oyo State will experience rainfall over a significant part of the year, though the total volume is expected to be slightly lower than in 2025.
Aderinto noted that despite the lower cumulative rainfall, the state may still witness flash floods due to intense rainfall within short periods — a result of climate change and global warming.
He emphasised that the Governor Seyi Makinde administration remains proactive, with adequate measures in place to protect residents from flooding.
The commissioner disclosed that the Ministry has commenced the second phase of desilting rivers and drainage channels across the state, including those under the Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project (IUFMP). More than 50 per cent of identified waterways have already been desilted.
He explained that the continuous desilting exercise ensures smooth passage for stormwater and reduces flood risks.
Aderinto added that the government has intensified public enlightenment campaigns, urging residents in flood-prone areas to relocate to safer locations before heavy rains intensify. He commended those who have complied and appealed for broader cooperation.
The state is also set to begin additional erosion control and culvert construction projects under its watershed management programme across the three senatorial districts.
Aderinto reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustained environmental protection initiatives to mitigate the impact of climate change and ensure a safer environment for all.
