10 Cross River erosion-ravaged communities benefit from NEWMAP interventions

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Eyo Charles, Calabar  

At least. 10 communities in the outskirts of Calabar are benefiting from the World Bank assisted Cross River State Erosion Project, managed by the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP). 

The erosion-ravaged communities are Ikot Nkebre, Atakpa, Edim Otop, Ikot Ekpo, Ikot Anwatim, Ikot Uduak, Ikot Enebong, Nyanghasang and LEMNA/Agric Quarters within the Calabar metropolis. 

Some of the completed erosion works include the rehabilitation of erosion-damaged roads and pathways in Ikom Nkebre and Ikot Anwatim. Many residents in Ikot Nkebre, Nyakassang, Ikot Enebong communities were forced to relocate to save their lives, especially during rainy the season. 

Official statistics said over 20 houses were either pulled down or washed away and no fewer than 35 lives were lost in the last 10 years in these communities. 

A community leader in Nyakassang, Mr Edem Nsa said many agencies have visited but that the situation required much more than palliatives. 

“There are deep gullies all over this community. We have many houses inside the ravine and others sit precariously on edges of cliffs. We have had cases where minor rain and winds have pulled them, resulting in several deaths. 

“Many have moved away to save their lives. But many others have no-where else to move to. This is why we need government and international interventions to save our lives”, he said. 

Project Coordinator, Mr Fidelis Anukwa, who spoke to journalists, said the state government had set up committees to sensitise the affected community members on the procedure for implementation of the livelihood activities in order for them to take full ownership of the ongoing or completed projects. 

“We have put in place additional four Community Intervention Groups (CIGs) in each of our affected communities, and legally registered 10 community associations. 

“The Community Action Plan and Livelihood Business Plan proposals for funding have been developed and reviewed, and behavior change campaigns on proper disposal of waste has been conducted across communities in the state. 

The Commissioner for International Development and Cooperation, Dr. Inyang Asibong, said the state was listed amongst those states that require urgent intervention.

— DAILY TRUST