By Tonye Apiri
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has announced a broad plan to address the state’s recurring flood problems, including the development of an updated flood and drainage master plan.
The new approach will also involve setting up a dedicated environmental enforcement unit, tightening sanitation rules, and pulling down buildings blocking natural waterways.
Eno disclosed this while addressing reporters after an unscheduled visit to the ongoing Judiciary Staff Quarters project in Uyo.
He noted that managing floods must be a joint effort between the government and citizens, adding that fast-paced urban growth has made it necessary to update the state’s current flood control framework.
The governor said he has instructed the Commissioner for Environment to urgently bring together environmental experts, engineers and other key stakeholders to design a modern flood and drainage master plan. The document is expected to guide future infrastructure projects, drainage works and flood prevention across the state.
“We need to have a state flood and drainage master plan. The one we have is old. There are new developments that have taken place. We are bringing all our experts together and will develop the state flood master plan so that we can use it,” he said.
As part of the revamped environmental drive, Governor Eno revealed plans for the “Clean Akwa Ibom Brigade”. The unit, which will operate under the Ministry of Environment, will be tasked specifically with clearing drainage channels and supporting flood mitigation efforts statewide.
He explained that the brigade would work alongside existing environmental agencies but focus solely on drainage upkeep, stressing that flood management requires a different operational model from regular waste disposal.
The governor also issued a strong warning on illegal construction. He declared that any building found on drainage channels or flood paths would be demolished, regardless of who owns it, their status, or whether prior approvals were granted.
In addition, he directed the Ministry of Environment, the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency, AKSEPWMA, and the Office of the Attorney-General to set up Environmental Sanitation Courts. The courts will handle prosecution of persons who breach sanitation laws.
Instead of just fines, Eno said violators would be made to perform community service such as clearing clogged drains and taking part in sanitation activities.
He further announced stricter enforcement of the monthly sanitation exercise. From now on, movement will be restricted statewide on the last Saturday of every month from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.
He warned that no exceptions would be made during the period, including for ceremonies, business activities, or travelers arriving in the state, until the exercise ends.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to investing in drainage systems and flood control projects, Governor Eno urged residents to take more responsibility for keeping their environments clean and adhering to environmental laws.
He said the new measures reflect his government’s wider goal of protecting lives and property, preserving public infrastructure, and building a cleaner, safer and more environmentally sustainable Akwa Ibom State.