Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has unveiled a comprehensive flood control strategy aimed at addressing persistent flooding across the state.
Speaking after an inspection of the Judiciary Staff Quarters project in Uyo, the governor announced plans to develop a new flood and drainage master plan to replace the existing framework, which he said no longer reflects the realities of rapid urbanisation and expanding infrastructure.
Eno directed the Commissioner for Environment to work with engineers, environmental experts and other stakeholders to produce a modern flood management blueprint that will guide future infrastructure development and flood mitigation efforts.
As part of the initiative, the governor announced the establishment of the Clean Akwa Ibom Brigade, a specialised unit under the Ministry of Environment that will focus on clearing drainage channels and preventing flooding across the state.
He also ordered the demolition of all buildings found to be obstructing designated drainage channels, warning that no individual or property owner would be exempt from enforcement.
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To strengthen compliance with environmental laws, the governor directed the Ministry of Environment, the State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency, and the Office of the Attorney General to establish Environmental Sanitation Courts to prosecute offenders. He said violators would be assigned community service, including clearing blocked drainage systems, instead of relying solely on fines.
Governor Eno further announced the strict enforcement of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise. He said movement across the state would be restricted on the last Saturday of every month from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., with no exemptions for commercial activities, ceremonies or travellers.
He stressed that while the government would continue investing in drainage infrastructure, residents also have a responsibility to maintain a clean environment and comply with sanitation regulations.
During the inspection of the Judiciary Staff Quarters project, the governor expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of work, criticising contractors for abandoning the site during official working hours. He warned that delays in project execution would not be tolerated and directed contractors to improve their performance.
