Gov Aiyedatiwa Pledges Proactive Disaster Measures as NEMA, World Bank Launch Emergency Response Project in Ondo
By Exponent News, Akure, 10th, August 2025
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to proactive disaster prevention, particularly in tackling flooding, as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the World Bank flagged off the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) project in the state.
Speaking in Akure on Sunday during a courtesy visit by the agencies ahead of the project’s launch, Aiyedatiwa said Ondo’s selection as one of seven states for the programme was due to its preparedness and proactive stance, not because it is the most disaster-prone.
“We are intentional and deliberate about preventing emergencies, especially in the area of flood control. Our ministries of Environment and Infrastructure are deploying swamp buggy machines for channelization before the rains start. This has helped us avoid major flooding this year, except in some riverine areas,” the governor stated.
Aiyedatiwa cited the swift restoration of operations at Akure Airport within three days after strong winds damaged its control tower as evidence of the state’s emergency readiness. He also described the decades-long sea incursion at Aiyetoro as a “pathetic situation” requiring a lasting, well-designed solution, assuring that new measures would address the problem sustainably.
The governor urged residents to support government efforts by avoiding indiscriminate waste disposal and obstruction of waterways.
NEMA’s Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting, Mr. Badele Onimode, said the EPR project, with World Bank support, will include hazard mapping, community sensitization, data gathering, and resident training on disaster response.
World Bank representative, Mr. Francis Nkoka, noted that the institution would provide both financial and technical assistance, stressing the need for strong preparedness measures alongside response capabilities.
The event was attended by top government officials, including Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service Bayo Philip, and Attorney General Dr. Kayode Ajulo.
