Oyo approves ₦690m, dredges 11 rivers to tackle flooding

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Oyo State Government has taken major steps to mitigate the risks of flooding and fire disasters, approving a total of ₦690 million for critical interventions across the state.

According to the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the decision was made during the State Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday at the Secretariat, Agodi, in Ibadan.

The initiatives include the dredging of 11 rivers and the procurement of special equipment for the Oyo State Fire Service Agency.

Oyelade noted that the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has also been directed to procure additional compactor trucks to improve refuse collection, a move aimed at enhancing sanitation and reducing environmental hazards in urban areas.

These actions come in response to predictions by the Nigeria Hydrological Service Agency and the Nigeria Meteorological Agency that several states, including Oyo, are at risk of flooding during the 2024 rainy season.

The commissioner emphasized that the fire service upgrade was prompted by a series of fire incidents in markets across the state, most recently at Aleshinloye market in Ibadan. The new equipment will enhance firefighting capabilities, support rescue operations, and provide greater protection for fire service personnel.

Oyelade further mentioned that alongside these efforts, infrastructure upgrades have been carried out at key locations, including the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport and the Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road.