The Federal Government has assured residents of Cross River State of its commitment to implementing lasting measures to address the recurring menace of flooding and erosion.
The government described the flooding and erosion as persistent environmental challenges requiring coordinated and sustained intervention to protect lives, livelihoods, and critical infrastructure.
The Managing Director of the South South Development Commission, Usoro Akpabio, gave the assurance yesterday during an assessment visit to communities devastated by recent erosion and flood incidents in Cross River State.
Akpabio, who led a delegation of management and board members of the commission to the affected areas and internally displaced persons camp, said the commission was determined to prioritise humanitarian response while working with relevant agencies to develop sustainable solutions to protect vulnerable communities.
She said the visit underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to standing with affected residents and ensuring that emergency interventions are complemented by long-term environmental and infrastructure projects.
“We came here because when lives are at risk, leadership must be present. We had to cut short our official engagements because this is about people, families and communities whose lives have been disrupted.
“What we have seen is deeply concerning. Beyond the damaged infrastructure, there are families who have lost loved ones, livelihoods and their sense of security. On behalf of the South South Development Commission, I extend our heartfelt sympathies to every affected family and community.
“Although the commission is still putting its institutional structures fully in place, disaster response and humanitarian support cannot wait. We are committed to treating natural disasters as an emergency priority while working with stakeholders to ensure lasting solutions,” she said.
Akpabio noted that the flooding and erosion affecting Cross River were not isolated incidents, adding that several states across the South-South region were experiencing similar environmental challenges.
According to her, the commission will carry out similar assessment visits across affected states to develop a coordinated regional response that will strengthen disaster preparedness, improve resilience and support sustainable development.
She added that the commission would work closely with the Federal Government, state governments, emergency management agencies and development partners to implement projects aimed at controlling erosion, improving drainage infrastructure and reducing the impact of future flooding.
The Director-General of the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency, Efa Nyong, commended the Federal Government and the South South Development Commission for the prompt assessment visit, saying the intervention would boost ongoing efforts to assist affected communities.
Nyong said the state government had continued to provide relief materials and emergency support to displaced families, while appealing for increased collaboration among federal agencies, development partners and humanitarian organisations.
He stressed that beyond emergency relief, sustained investments in erosion control, proper drainage systems and climate adaptation measures were critical to preventing future disasters and safeguarding lives and property across the state.