1. His Excellency, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, has directed some construction companies in the State to immediately mobilize to flood-affected areas to evacuate excess storm water, drain flooded communities, and restore normalcy following the torrential rainfall experienced on Thursday, July 9, 2026.
2. The Governor has also directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), under the Office of the Deputy Governor, the Ministry of Environment, and the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency to immediately inspect the affected locations, assess the extent of the damage, and implement appropriate emergency measures to ameliorate the situation.
3. Thursday’s heavy rainfall resulted in storm water flooding in several parts of Uyo, including Nkemba Street (Abak Road), Itu Road, Osongama Estate, and Shelter Afrique, as well as some areas in Abak Local Government Area.
4. The State Government sympathizes with all residents affected by the flooding and reassures the public of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property. Government further assures residents that immediate intervention has commenced in some affected areas, while the implementation of lasting flood mitigation measures is also being considered.
5. It will be recalled that the Nigerian Metrological Agency ( Nimet) had earlier issued warnings of possible flooding in several states of the Federation during the current rainy season. In view of this, the Akwa Ibom State Government calls on all residents to complement government efforts by ensuring that drainage channels around their homes and business premises are kept free of refuse and other obstructions to allow the free flow of storm water.
6. The Government urges members of the public to refrain from dumping refuse into waterways and drainage channels, as such practices obstruct the free flow of storm water and significantly contribute to flooding. It will take the collective efforts of both the Government and the people to effectively address and control this challenge.
7. Similarly, Government will remove all structures and properties obstructing waterways and drainage lines , regardless of ownership or the persons involved, in order to ensure the free flow of storm water and protect lives and property.
8. Government remains committed to protecting lives and property and urges citizens to cooperate fully with emergency response agencies as efforts to restore normalcy continue in the affected areas.
Signed:
Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah
Commissioner for Information
