The Delta State Government has received high praise from Anda Ayuba Yalaks, National Project Coordinator of the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project-European Investment Bank (NEWMAP-EIB), for its commitment to tackling environmental challenges.
Sheriff Oborevwori’s (Governor) administration recently approved and released ₦1 billion as a counterpart fund contribution, securing Delta State as one of the 23 beneficiaries of the European Investment Bank’s intervention.
Yalaks described this move as a demonstration of strong political will, emphasizing that it aligns with expectations for sustainable environmental governance.
The commendation was made when Yalaks led a delegation from the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU) on a courtesy visit to Kingsley Emu, Secretary to the State Government (SSG) in Asaba.
He noted that an assessment of erosion-prone sites in the state showed active and aggressive threats to infrastructure and human lives, making them eligible for intervention under the European Investment Bank’s funding conditions.
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“Delta State has met all conditions 100%, and these sites are now primed for investment,” Yalaks stated.
In response, Emu highlighted past successes under the first phase of NEWMAP, including the Owanta erosion and stormwater management project in Ika North East, as well as the Obomkpa and Ukwu-Nzu erosion sites in Aniocha North Local Government Area.
He appealed for similar intervention in other ongoing projects, assuring the delegation of the Delta State Government’s unwavering support in building climate resilience.
Delta State’s Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Jamani Tommy Ejiro, also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
He noted that Governor Oborevwori’s campaign promises to the people of Okpanam were already yielding results, as the Amachai/Ogbozoma and Vanguard Area erosion sites had been approved for intervention.
“This move aims to secure and sustain the environment in Delta State,” Ejiro said.
The meeting had in attendance key government officials, including the Commissioner for Transport, Onoriode Agofure; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Minnie Oseji; and the State Project Coordinator, Benedict Nwaokocha, alongside NEWMAP-EIB specialists.
