FRIDAY April 11, 2025 |
By thenewsdesk.ng
As the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) issues heavy rainfall forecast for Akwa Ibom and other southern states, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA), Obong (Dr) Prince Ikim, has called for calm, assuring residents of the state’s preparedness through the proactive leadership of Governor Umo Eno.
Reacting to the NiMet advisory, which predicts heavy rains, strong winds, and potential flash flooding, Dr Ikim affirmed that AKSEPWMA had already stepped up its operations across flood-prone areas to mitigate risks. He credited the readiness to the foresight and continuous support of Governor Umo Eno, who he described as “a leader always ahead of time.”
“His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., has consistently empowered our agency to be proactive. We have intensified desilting of major drains and expanded our field operations to vulnerable zones. Our men are on red alert,” he stated.
However, the former Oruk Anam Council Boss did not hold back in appealing to residents to play their part in ensuring a flood-free environment. While reiterating basic safety tips during heavy rains, he also emphasized the need for community responsibility.
“These rains may come with strong winds. Avoid parking under trees or near weak structures. Disconnect all electrical appliances before it begins to rain. Above all, help us by desilting drains around your homes and stop dumping refuse into the gutters. Flooding is often manmade and preventable,” he cautioned.
The multiple award-winning environmental boss stressed that AKSEPWMA’s responsibility goes beyond government action, noting that public cooperation is key to effective waste and flood management.
“As an agency, we are not just clearing drains. We are working with communities, town criers, and the media to deepen sensitisation. But we can only succeed when residents show interest in their own safety,” he added.
The security expert and heavyweight politician emphasized the ongoing community-focused campaigns initiated by his agency and warned that negligence could heighten the effects of predicted flash floods.
“We are doing the work. But no government agency can win this alone. Let us stay vigilant, obey safety rules, keep our surroundings clean, desilt that gutter in front of your home, avoid indiscriminate waste dumping and act responsibly,” he concluded.
