The Rivers State Government has begun a large-scale desilting and clearing of waterways across the state as part of efforts to mitigate recurring flood challenges.
Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, who also chairs the State Flood Management and Prevention Committee, led an inspection of ongoing desilting works at the Rumuokwurusi River in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area on Tuesday.
She noted that clogged rivers, creeks, and canals have intensified flooding during heavy rains, stressing that the government is addressing the issue through a coordinated effort involving the Ministries of Works and Environment alongside the Flood Committee. Heavy-duty swamp buggies are being deployed to open up water channels and improve flow, she added.
Prof. Odu appealed for patience from residents, assuring that communities in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor yet to be reached will soon benefit from the current exercise.
She also disclosed that the committee is prioritising severely impacted locations and will commence distribution of relief materials on Thursday to flood-affected communities in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, Ahoada East and Ahoada West LGAs.
Identifying Ndoni (Ward 15) as among the worst-hit, the Deputy Governor said support will be provided directly to residents who choose to remain in their communities instead of relocating to IDP camps.
A representative of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Dr. Chituru Ogundu, said the proactive intervention follows a NIMET flood forecast tailored to the state, enabling early response.
