The Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) has received accolades for its efforts in rejuvenating the socio-economic and cultural vibrancy of Igbei in Auchi, located within the Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
Initially plagued by severe flood and drainage issues stemming from rapid urbanization, Igbei faced escalating peak flows and disruptions to its natural floodplains due to inadequate drainage systems.
As a former bustling polytechnic and residential town renowned for its cultural and socio-economic significance, Igbei fell into disarray each year as floods and erosion wreaked havoc on the community.
NEWMAP’s intervention in Igbei marked a turning point, revitalizing the community’s socio-economic and cultural essence through various auxiliary projects.
To combat the recurrent flood challenges in Igbei, the NEWMAP team, under the leadership of Dr. Tom Obaseki, spearheaded the construction of two Flood Detention Ponds and an extensive network of concrete channels and Box Culverts stretching from the Auchi-Okene Highway to Mat Ice/Otaru road, connecting to a vital Storm Water outlet developed during the initial Oshiobugie Flood and Gully remediation phase.
Consequently, the sports center in Igbei underwent rehabilitation, equipped with new seating arrangements and modernized restrooms. Additionally, a solar-powered borehole was installed to provide water services to the facility and its surrounding communities.
During the NEWMAP team’s visit to the palace, His Highness Alhaji Aliru H. Momoh, the esteemed Otaru of Auchi Kingdom, lauded the project with a perfect score, commending Governor Obaseki’s administration for delivering outstanding results promptly, as promised.
