We’ll give more assistance to erosion flood-prone communities —Minister

THE Federal Government has pledged to reclaim all lands lost to gully erosion and assist flood-prone communities across the country.

Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, made this known at the commissioning of the gully erosion control works at Okwohia , Obowo/Ihitte Uboma Local Government Area of Imo State.

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He noted that the intervention of the Federal Government would usher in a  huge relief to the Okwohia community which had, for long,  been devastated by ecological challenge.

Onu said that the approval of the project was a clear testimony to the present administration’s resolve to ensure that no part of the country would be allowed to suffer any neglect due to geographical location.

He said to further consolidate on the gains of this stride, the Federal Government’s execution of projects across the country also demonstrates the sincerity of purpose of All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration towards promoting equity and fair play to all and sundry.

The minister said the project would improve the standard of living of  the community and its environs, adding that it would at the same time, reduce the danger posed to lives and property  associated with the erosion and persistent flooding experienced in recent times.

He stressed that the Federal Government would continue to implement all genuine government policies, agreements and contracts at both national and international levels that were  aimed at laying a solid foundation for a virile and prosperous nation.

Earlier in her welcome address, the permanent secretary, Ecological Fund Office (EFO), Dr Habiba Lawal,  said that the project was initiated through a request for an urgent intervention forwarded to the office by Senator Benjamin Uwajumobi representing  Imo North District at the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly.

The permanent secretary, who was represented by Engineer Mathias Eluma, added that the commissioning and handing over of the project to the benefiting community would enable the host community to take over and exercise ownership over the project and ensure its maintenance and sustainability.