From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
The Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has said his administration is determined to provide lasting solutions to environmental challenges particularly erosion and flooding.
He also expressed satisfaction with the progress of ongoing intervention projects in Calabar, the state capital.
The governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Emmanuel Ironbar, made this statement during an inspection tour of critical gully erosion sites.
The inspection was undertaken in partnership with officials from the Nigeria Climate Adaptation – Erosion & Watershed Program (NEWMAP-EIB).
At the Elijah Henshaw gully erosion site, the governor 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, said the visit was part of an on-the-spot assessment of ongoing erosion control efforts.
He emphasised 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 stabilisation techniques, and improved environmental management practices.
The inspection covered both active and newly identified high-risk erosion sites including Elijah Henshaw and Marina Bayside.
Additional sites slated for urgent attention by the government include Ikot Effangha Mkpa, Summit Hills, and Mechanic Village gully sites.