Alarmed by the increase in flooding incidents in Akwa Ibom State, particularly in Uyo, Governor Umo Eno has taken steps to address the issue. On September 25, 2026, the Commissioner for Environment, Nsikak Ekong, announced that a consultant will review and update the city's urban drain and flood master-plan. This move aims to provide a long-term solution to the flooding problem, which has been exacerbated by urbanization and climate change.
The review of the master-plan is crucial in addressing the root causes of flooding in Uyo. According to Commissioner Ekong, human factors such as blocking of drains, climate change, and rapid urbanization have contributed to the spike in flooding incidents. The state's government is working to mitigate these factors and prevent future occurrences. Ekong emphasized that the review will help the state respond effectively to rapid urbanization and climate-induced flooding.
Rapid urbanization has significantly contributed to the flooding problem in Uyo. As the city expands, culverts that once adequately handled water flow may no longer be sufficient. The lack of bushes to absorb water, combined with the proliferation of concrete, slabs, and roads, has worsened the situation. The governor's directive to review the flood/drain master-plan is a step towards finding a lasting solution to the problem.
To further address the issue, the Akwa Ibom State government is set to inaugurate an environmental response team, dubbed the 'Clean Akwa Ibom Brigade'. This team will check and monitor flood-prone areas across the state. Additionally, the government is working on reclaiming the Uyo dump site, with plans to build a housing estate in the area. The state generates approximately 700,000 metric tonnes of waste annually, which is equivalent to about 2,000 tonnes daily.
The government is exploring ways to convert waste into energy and wealth. Commissioner Ekong revealed that two companies, one from India and the other from the US, have been contacted to develop a waste management strategy. The US company proposed converting waste to energy and selling it to the national grid, while the Indian company suggested a waste-to-wealth approach, where every family would be profiled and provided with colored dust bins for segregated waste collection.
Environmental education programs have been introduced in primary and secondary schools to promote waste segregation and management. The government has also undertaken drainage desilting projects around major roads, including Abak Road, Aka Road, and Ikot Ekpene Road. Interventions have also been made in Shelter Extension and other affected areas to mitigate the impact of flooding.
The Akwa Ibom State government is committed to finding a lasting solution to the flooding problem. With the review of the master-plan and the implementation of new waste management strategies, the state aims to reduce the incidence of flooding and promote sustainable development. The government's efforts are expected to provide employment opportunities for youths and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
Key points
- Governor Umo Eno has ordered a review of Uyo's urban drain and flood master-plan to address perennial flooding.
- The review aims to provide a long-term solution to the flooding problem, which has been exacerbated by urbanization and climate change.
- The Akwa Ibom State government is exploring ways to convert waste into energy and wealth to promote sustainable development.
