Flood menace: Local government chairman begs private sector for help

Governments in the country often resort to private partnership to accelerate the economic growth of their administrative enclaves but a local government chairman in Ogun State, beleaguered by incessant flooding in his LGA has adopted this route to combat the menace. 

It is the peak of the rainy season in the country, a period typically associated with severe floods, the Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, Alhaji Lawal Wasiu assailed by flood is calling for private partnership in tackling the issue. 

Alhaji Wasiu called for collaborative efforts with the Apostolic Faith Church and Crawford University to find solution to the flooding issues in the area.

The LG Boss made the call during a courtesy visit of the District Superintendent of the Apostolic Mission, Rev. Lasisi Olowosile to the Local Government Secretariat in Ota.

Alhaji Wasiu emphasised the need to work together in identifying developmental projects and address the flooding menace in the area.

“Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government is committed to work with the Apostolic Faith Church and Crawford University to improve the lives of residents and address challenges. This partnership is expected to yield positive results and enhance the overall development of the Local Government,” he said.

Responding, Superintendent, Apostolic Mission, Rev. Lasisi Olowosile said the visit was imperative to appreciate the present administration in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government for its pro-activeness in managing the menace of flooding in the area.

He admonished the Local government administration not to relent in its efforts at fulfilling the electioneering promises to the residents.

Speaking, Head of Local Government Administration, Alhaji Junaid Wasiu appreciated the delegates’ visit, requesting support and collaboration from the mission, pleading for support in terms of revenue generation and project development in the Local Government.

He enjoined the Institution to ensure continuity in the collaboration between the Local government and the mission, geared towards improving the livelihood of the residents.

Meanwhile, Nigeria's environment ministry has issued a flood alert warning today for 19 states, that heavy rainfall is expected from Tuesday to Saturday and this could trigger flooding in various parts of the country.

The National Flood Early Warning Centre identified areas at risk to include five states in the northwest, three in the south and four in the central region, such as Niger state, where flooding in May killed 117 people and left dozens missing as well as thousands of houses destroyed.

Authorities urged residents and local governments to take precautionary measures to reduce potential damage and safeguard the public.