Governor Otu Inspects Erosion Control Projects in Calabar, Pledges Lasting Solutions

By Missang AKPET 

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling erosion and flooding in the state, expressing satisfaction with the progress of ongoing intervention projects in Calabar.

The Governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Emmanuel Ironbar, made this statement during an inspection tour of critical gully erosion sites in partnership with officials from the Nigeria Climate Adaptation – Erosion & Watershed Program (NEWMAP-EIB).

At the Elijah Henshaw gully erosion site, Mr. Ironbar reflected on the site’s previously dire condition, which had led to severe property losses and hardship for residents. He acknowledged the urgency of addressing the crisis and assured the public that the government is working closely with relevant agencies to implement lasting, science-based solutions.

The State Project Coordinator of CRS NEWMAP-EIB, Prof. Emmanuel Eyo, explained that the visit was part of an on-the-spot assessment of ongoing erosion control efforts. He noted that Calabar’s erosion problem has been exacerbated by factors such as poor drainage termination, improper waste disposal, and environmental mismanagement.

To effectively combat erosion in the metropolis, Prof. Eyo emphasized the need for proper drainage infrastructure, soil stabilization techniques, and improved environmental management practices.

The inspection covered both active and newly identified high-risk erosion sites. Ongoing intervention projects include Elijah Henshaw and Marina Bayside, while additional locations slated for urgent attention include Ikot Effangha Mkpa, Summit Hills, and Mechanic Village gully sites.