By Nneka Nwogwugwu
An erosion and flood control project built in Isuikwuato community of Abia State have been commissioned by the federal government.
The project, located at Oghighe/Urualla Ohukabia Aligbara/Ohukabia, Nduibi in Oguduasa clan in Isuikwuato Local Government Area (LGA) of the state, was executed through the Ecological Fund Office (EFO), Office of the Secretary to the Federal Government (SFG).
President Muhammadu Buhari said the project was one of the 20 ecological interventions awarded by the Federal Executive Council in June 2020.
The President, represented by the Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Rep. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said the project was meant to address the challenges of soil erosion and flooding that had dealt severely with the communities for many decades.
“I have no doubt that the successful completion of the project will ensure the safety and wellbeing of the people of the communities and also improve their standard of living.
“It will mitigate the dangers, losses and damages associated with soil erosion and seasonal flooding of unpredictable intensity, which had plagued the communities for years.
“Furthermore, the project would provide ample opportunities for the socio-economic growth of the natives,” Buhari said.
Onyejeocha, a member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, who attracted the project, paid glowing tribute to the president for approving the project for her constituency.
She said, “The approval of the project is in tandem with the president’s pledge that no part of the country will suffer neglect, owing to its geographical location or political affiliation because every part of Nigeria is dear to him.”
Onyejeocha, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party in August 2018, expressed joy that she could realise the project within the short period she joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).
She thanked the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, the contractors and consultants “for their doggedness in ensuring quality and timely completion of the project.”