ASEPA Launches Major Sanitation and Flood Mitigation Operation in Umuahia
In response to flood warnings issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), Umuahia Zone, has embarked on an extensive environmental sanitation and drainage dredging campaign across flood-prone areas of the state capital.
The initiative, currently underway in Umuahia North and South Local Government Areas, targets key waterways and blocked drainage systems. Locations already under active operation include Afaraukwu-Aba Road, Ihie Bridge in Umuntu Autonomous Community, and Umudere Bridge linking Amakama in Olokoro Clan.
This proactive measure follows recent NiMet forecasts identifying Abia among states at high risk of flooding due to intensified rainfall linked to climate change. The effort reflects ASEPA’s commitment to disaster prevention through sustainable environmental management and infrastructure maintenance.
Speaking during a site inspection, Catechist Jonah Ambrose, Deputy General Manager of ASEPA Umuahia Zone, emphasized the preventive nature of the exercise.
“This operation is designed to cushion the impact of potential flooding and avert disasters before they occur,” he stated. “We are clearing drainage channels and desilting rivers, including the Ihie River, which has suffered years of blockage from non-biodegradable waste.”
Ambrose urged residents to refrain from indiscriminate dumping of refuse, especially into drains and water bodies. He noted that much of the debris consists of plastic waste, which hinders the natural flow of stormwater.
“We are installing waste receptacles in strategic locations to promote proper waste disposal,” he added. “Flood prevention is a shared responsibility that requires community cooperation.”
Also addressing the media, Mr. Chidiebere Ogbuehi, ASEPA’s Head of Operations, disclosed that the agency collects approximately 216,000 tons of waste annually. He identified poor waste management practices as a major contributor to environmental degradation in the state.
“To address this, ASEPA has introduced a door-to-door waste collection system to foster a culture of responsible disposal,” he said.
The agency’s intervention highlights the growing importance of local action in building climate resilience. Abia State’s strategy—anchored on infrastructure maintenance, public awareness, and civic engagement—offers a replicable model for flood-prone regions across Nigeria and beyond.
ASEPA has pledged to intensify community sensitization campaigns on environmental stewardship and sustainable waste practices. Plans are also underway to partner with community leaders and civil society organizations in advancing public education initiatives.
Meanwhile, Mr. Francis Okechukwu Mathew, the contractor overseeing the dredging works, confirmed that significant waste blockages at the Ihie Bridge are being cleared. He assured that, barring weather disruptions, the project is expected to be completed within 10 days.
