FG kick-start Proactive Dredging of Ogun River

In an effort to prevent the kind of devastating flooding that has been witnessed in Maiduguri, Borno State, the federal government has launched a proactive initiative to improve water flow and alleviate the risk of flooding in the downstream section of the Ogun River.

The Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, under the leadership of Engr. Deji Ashiru, has spearheaded this initiative by engaging the contracting firm, Lanum Integrated Services Ltd, to dredge the 10 km stretch of the Ikorodu-Isheri section of the river.

The dredging project will increase the efficiency of water discharge from the Ogun River into the Lagoon, providing a more effective path for excess water releases from the Oyan Dam. Speaking at the official flag-off ceremony, Engr. Ashiru stressed the importance of the project, stating that the safety and well-being of communities along the river stretch was of utmost importance to the federal government.

He emphasized the proactive nature of the intervention, citing the recent catastrophic flooding in Borno State as an example of the devastating consequences that can arise from failed dams.

In addition to the dredging project, the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority has been steadily releasing water from the Oyan Dam in a controlled manner since March, 2024.

This move is aimed at creating more capacity in the dam to accommodate excess floodwater, further reducing the risk of flooding in the downstream areas.

Engr. Ashiru noted that the prevention of floods and erosion not only protects lives and properties but also contributes to economic growth and stability in the region.

With the looming threat of increased runoff in the coming months, the federal government’s preemptive measures are a crucial step towards ensuring the safety of communities along the Ogun River.

The dredging project represents a significant investment in disaster prevention, highlighting the need for proactive and sustainable solutions in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events.

As the project progresses, the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority and Lanum Integrated Services Ltd will work together to deliver a safer and more resilient Ogun River, safeguarding the livelihoods of communities and contributing to the long-term prosperity of the region.

While the dredging project is an essential component of the federal government’s response to the threat of flooding, it is just one aspect of a broader effort to enhance resilience and mitigate the impacts of climate change in Nigeria.

As the nation continues to grapple with the challenges of rapid urbanization, population growth, and environmental degradation, the need for sustainable and inclusive approaches to development becomes increasingly pressing.

The Ogun River dredging project serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role that effective planning, infrastructure investment, and disaster preparedness play in ensuring the well-being and security of vulnerable communities across the country

References and Citations:

• Leadership – Flooding: Federal govt begins dredging of Ogun River
• Punch – FG warns of impending flooding on Rivers Niger, Benue
• TheNation – shettima Pledges Fed’gov’ts continued support to flood victims