Oyo Dredges Rivers Across Local Governments with ₦690 Million to Check Flooding

In a move to mitigate risks of flooding and bolster public infrastructure, the Oyo State Government has commenced the dredging of 11 major rivers across its 33 local government areas.

This initiative, backed by a budget of ₦690 million, is aimed at preparing the state for the anticipated heavy rainfall during the 2025 wet season.

The dredging project, which covers rivers in Ibadan, Oyo, Iseyin, Igbo-Ora, and Ogbomoso, follows flood warnings issued by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET).

The state government said the project is a critical part of its broader flood control strategy and infrastructure improvement agenda.

Speaking on the initiative, Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mr. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, said the state is acting proactively to prevent loss of lives and property.

“This intervention is not only to address the perennial flooding challenges but also to improve the overall environmental conditions and enhance socio-economic activities,” he stated.

In addition to river dredging, the government has greenlit several complementary infrastructure upgrades. These include the rehabilitation of key roads, the installation of streetlights along the Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, and improvements to the Ibadan Airport.

The state has also approved the procurement of advanced firefighting equipment for the Oyo State Fire Service Agency. This follows recent fire incidents, including the notable blaze at Aleshinloye Market in Ibadan, underscoring the need for improved emergency response capabilities.

These efforts are aligned with the Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project (IUFMP), a World Bank-assisted initiative designed to boost resilience against urban flooding through strategic infrastructure investment and environmental management.

Residents have welcomed the developments, expressing hope that the dredging will alleviate the persistent flooding problems that have plagued parts of the state for years.

The state government reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable urban planning and environmental protection, urging residents to cooperate by avoiding indiscriminate waste disposal that could clog waterways.

As the rains approach, Oyo’s multi-pronged approach to flood control and urban development may serve as a model for other Nigerian states facing similar challenges.