Prior to the onset of heavy rainfall, the Ogun State Government has issued a warning to residents living in wetland areas to consider relocating to safer grounds.
The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) have predicted that the rainfall season will begin in March and end in December 2024. This period is expected to span two hundred and thirty-nine days, with an average rainfall of 1786.5mm, impacting sixteen out of the twenty local government areas in the state.
During the 2024 Ogun State Flood Alert event held at the Olusegun Osoba Press Center, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, highlighted that certain local government areas such as Imeko-Afon, Odeda, Abeokuta North, and Abeokuta South are likely to receive less rainfall compared to other areas.
Mr. Oresanya emphasized the potential risks of erosion for residents in hilly areas due to the speed of water flow, reassuring that the state government is implementing measures to mitigate the impact of the anticipated heavy rainfall.
He advised residents to either relocate from high-risk areas or take preventive measures like elevating structures to minimize damage. Additionally, those living in wetland areas, especially in the southern parts of the state, should prepare for rising water levels and potential flooding.
In a bid to address flooding challenges, the state government is embarking on various initiatives, including the construction of drainage channels, mini-bridges, culverts, and the desilting of rivers across the state.
Encouraging farmers to begin planting, Mr. Oresanya also provided guidance to fish and poultry farmers on navigating the rainy season effectively. He urged residents to obtain a ‘drainage permit’ before constructing drainages to ensure proper water passage and to prevent construction on flood-prone areas.
The Managing Director of Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, Engr. Olufemi Odumosu, highlighted the Authority’s efforts in flood control and the multiple benefits of the Oyan Dam infrastructure, including agriculture, flood control, hydro power generation, and tourism potential.
He called for collaboration between the Authority and the Ogun State government, particularly in the tourism sector, to maximize revenue generation opportunities.