The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has stepped up its ongoing efforts to clear canals and flood drains in oil-producing areas, with Umutu community in Ukwuani Local Government Area being the most recent to benefit.
The exercise, is aimed at tackling the recurring flooding problems in oil-producing communities. It drew the attention of residents, youth leaders, and other stakeholders, who came out to watch as heavy equipment was deployed to clear blocked water channels stretching about 5km from Umutu main gate to the Ethiope River via Mission Road.
Among those present was Surveyor Azuka Enebeli, the DESOPADEC Board member representing the Ndokwa Nation. He described the operation as a purposeful move by the Commission to protect lives, property, and livelihoods that are at risk from seasonal flooding.
The Youth President of Umutu Community, Mr. Nweike Ocheli, who worked alongside Surveyor Enebeli to oversee the project, thanked DESOPADEC for giving priority to the community’s needs. He noted that the desilting would be a huge relief for residents who have endured severe waterlogging and flood-related hardships in previous years.
Many community members who witnessed the exercise praised DESOPADEC’s leadership for what they described as a “people-focused initiative.” They emphasized that the project would not only improve environmental conditions but also help rebuild trust in government at the grassroots level.
The Umutu operation is part of a larger, ongoing de-silting campaign by DESOPADEC, which is being carried out simultaneously across its mandate areas, including the Itsekiri, Ijaw, Urhobo, Isoko, Ndokwa, and Ika ethnic groups.
The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has stepped up its ongoing efforts to clear canals and flood drains in oil-producing areas, with Umutu community in Ukwuani Local Government Area being the most recent to benefit.
The exercise, carried out today, is aimed at tackling the recurring flooding problems in oil-producing communities. It drew the attention of residents, youth leaders, and other stakeholders, who came out to watch as heavy equipment was deployed to clear blocked water channels — stretching about 5km from Umutu main gate to the Ethiope River via Mission Road.
Among those present was Surveyor Azuka Enebeli, the DESOPADEC Board member representing the Ndokwa Nation. He described the operation as a purposeful move by the Commission to protect lives, property, and livelihoods that are at risk from seasonal flooding.
The Youth President of Umutu Community, Mr. Nweike Ocheli, who worked alongside Surveyor Enebeli to oversee the project, thanked DESOPADEC for giving priority to the community’s needs. He noted that the desilting would be a huge relief for residents who have endured severe waterlogging and flood-related hardships in previous years.
Many community members who witnessed the exercise praised DESOPADEC’s leadership for what they described as a “people-focused initiative.” They emphasized that the project would not only improve environmental conditions but also help rebuild trust in government at the grassroots level.
The Umutu operation is part of a larger, ongoing de-silting campaign by DESOPADEC, which is being carried out simultaneously across its mandate areas, including the Itsekiri, Ijaw, Urhobo, Isoko, Ndokwa, and Ika ethnic groups.
Their commitment to improving infrastructure, promoting environmental safety, and engaging local communities has continued to enhance the Commission’s reputation as a trusted force for development in the Niger Delta.
Read also: DESOPADEC Chair Inspects Ashaka De-Silting Project, Urges Residents to Protect Drainage Systems
