Residents of Warri Metropolis are celebrating as Warri South Council Chairman, Hon. Isaac Agbeteyiniro, embarks on a large-scale canal clearing initiative aimed at reducing the frequent flooding that has plagued the city.
On October 6, 2024, Hon. Agbeteyiniro launched the project, which focuses on cleaning blocked canals in flood-prone areas, including Cinema Site, Eburu Street, DDPA Housing Estate, Robinson Plaza, Ogboru Street, and Okere Road. The canal clearing, which uses heavy-duty equipment like swamp buggies, is intended to improve drainage and prevent the severe flooding that disrupts the city during the rainy season. The project is being led by the Supervisory Councillor for Environment and supported by the Council’s environmental officers.
This proactive initiative has been widely praised by residents and stakeholders, including the Delta State Chapter of the Socioeconomic Network for Good Governance (SONGG), a civil society group known for promoting transparency and development. The group joined the council in supervising the canal-clearing exercise.
In a statement, Hon. Agbeteyiniro reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing longstanding challenges related to flooding as part of his MORE GRACE AGENDA. He emphasized that flooding has been a persistent issue in Warri, and his administration is determined to protect both lives and property. The chairman also stressed the importance of ongoing maintenance to ensure that the canals remain clear.
Hon. Femi Okorodiden, Supervisory Councillor for Environment, expressed gratitude for the chairman’s leadership, acknowledging the project as a significant step toward reducing flooding in the metropolis. He also thanked SONGG for its collaboration and support in overseeing the exercise.
The canal clearing project has garnered widespread community approval. Hon. Monday Iriferi (JP), representing Olodi Okpeki Ward 7, highlighted the positive impact of the project, noting that it addresses health risks posed by stagnant water, rodents, and flooding. He prayed for continued strength for Hon. Agbeteyiniro and commended him for aligning with the MORE AGENDA of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
SONGG President Comrade Sunny Anireto and other group leaders praised the council for its swift action, calling on residents to avoid dumping refuse in the canals to prevent future blockages. Comrade Karo Erueme, SONGG’s PRO, also expressed support for the council’s efforts, noting the importance of good governance in tackling environmental challenges.
Residents have expressed relief and gratitude for the canal clearing. Elder Ishani Jonathan, a resident of Amoforitse, stated, “We are happy our chairman remembered us. The flooding has been a big problem.” Mr. Odessa Gabriel, Vice Chairman of Amoforitse Street, added, “No more mosquitoes, no more flooding. May God bless our chairman.”
The project, jointly supervised by government officials and civil society groups, highlights the council’s dedication to transparency and accountability. With the success of this initiative, Warri South is setting an example for other areas struggling with similar environmental issues, ushering in a new era of environmental stability and economic growth for the city.
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