The Oyo State Government has announced the dredging of 11 flood-prone rivers and the approval of N690 million for flood control measures and firefighting equipment in anticipation of the rainy season

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Oyo State Government has disclosed that it has undertaken the dredging of 11 rivers as a proactive measure to mitigate potential flooding during the upcoming rainy season.

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This announcement follows predictions from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, indicating that Oyo State is among several states likely to experience flooding this year.

A statement released by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, in Ibadan on Wednesday, revealed that the decision was made during the Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday at the Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

Oyelade stated that the Ministry of Environment has also been directed to procure additional compactor trucks to improve refuse collection across the state.

“To protect lives and property, the council approved the immediate dredging of 11 flood-prone rivers across the state, including those in Iseyin, Oyo, Ibadan, Igbo Ora, Ogbomoso, and others,” Oyelade said.

Furthermore, the commissioner announced that the council approved the procurement of firefighting auxiliary and special equipment for the Oyo State Fire Service Agency.

This is aimed at enhancing their firefighting and rescue operations, as well as ensuring the safety of firefighters from occupational hazards.

“Approval was also given for the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources to procure compactor trucks to boost efficiency in refuse collection. The total approval for these three projects amounts to N690 million,” he added.

In other approvals, Oyelade mentioned the procurement and installation of a transformer and power generator for the Omololu Olunloyo Monumental Park, along with an energy storage upgrade for the dualised Ladoke Akintola Airport Road.

He explained that the recent airport shutdown was necessary for infrastructure upgrades to meet international standards, including aesthetic improvements, recreational facilities, advertising displays, directional signs, and speed limit indicators crucial for international flight operations. This airport project is budgeted at N224,781,750.

The Executive Council also approved the installation of public lighting along the Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, Phase One, a 110 km motorway designed to ease traffic congestion in Ibadan and provide a bypass for travelers.

This project is aimed at ensuring adequate and sustainable lighting on the motorway, enhancing socio-economic growth and investment, including the night-time economy, and will cost N15,111,129,535.30.

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Additionally, the government approved the rehabilitation of several roads, including Bolajoko Estate Road Network, General Gas, Bishop’s Court Road, Jejelaye, Peace Roads, and Anifalaje Area, at a total cost of N1.9 billion.