By Awyetu Asabe Hope
The Bayelsa State Government has commenced a large-scale desilting of canals and waterways across Yenagoa and surrounding communities to reduce flood risks during the 2026 rainy season.
The exercise, led by the State Directorate of Flood and Erosion Control, began on Wednesday at the St. Peter’s–Obele Canal and the Osiri Road canal in Yenagoa.
Additional equipment has been deployed to other waterways to accelerate the flood-control effort.
The government said the initiative is aimed at improving water flow through drainage channels and preventing flooding as rainfall intensifies.
Residents were warned against dumping refuse into canals and waterways, with authorities identifying the St. Peter’s, Obele, Goodnews and Akenpai canals as major concern areas.
The Directorate also cautioned against erecting structures on canal setbacks and rights-of-way, noting that such developments obstruct water movement and increase flood risks.
The agency urged residents to keep away from active work sites for safety reasons and called on community leaders to support contractors and prevent disruptions to the exercise.
According to the Directorate, the annual desilting programme reflects the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property through proactive flood-prevention measures.
