As the rainy season approaches, concerns about flood disasters loom across many Nigerian cities. In response, Engr. Dr. Bemigho Ofoeyeno, FNSE, FNICE, FNIEE, FNIWE, FIMC—former Vice President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers—has emphasized the urgency of proactive flood control measures.
Speaking as Guest Lecturer at the 24th Anniversary of NSE Apapa Branch—popularly known as the Golden Branch—and the 5th Engr. Akintunde Zedomi Distinguished Lecture Series, Engr. Ofoeyeno presented a compelling lecture on “Flood Menace in Nigeria: Impacts, Remedial and Management Strategies.” The event, held on Friday, March 29, 2025, at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos, attracted engineering professionals, government representatives, and urban planners from across the country.
Key Highlights of the Lecture
Engr. Ofoeyeno outlined six core causes of recurrent flooding in Nigeria:
Blocked and inadequate drainage systems
Uncontrolled urban expansion on flood-prone areas
Climate change and irregular heavy rainfall
Destruction of wetlands
Indiscriminate waste disposal
Weak and poorly enforced flood management policies
He drew attention to his impactful work in flood control in Asaba and its environs, and his current role as Director of Projects in the Warri/Uvwie and Environs Special Area Flood Control Project in Delta State—projects that exemplify engineering-led interventions in flood-prone zones.
Proactive Recommendations
To mitigate flooding risks this season, Engr. Ofoeyeno recommended the following:
Upgrade and expand urban drainage systems to accommodate stormwater.
Enforce urban planning regulations to prevent construction on waterways.
Institutionalize regular drainage desilting and maintenance.
Restore wetlands and promote green buffer zones.
Conduct mass public awareness campaigns on responsible waste disposal.
Strengthen flood management policies through industry-government collaboration.
Recognition and Commendation
In recognition of his leadership and commitment to sustainable flood management, Engr. Ofoeyeno was honored with the Distinguished Service Award by NSE Apapa Branch. The award was presented by Engr. Abrahim Aledu, FNSE, the Pioneer Chairman of the Branch, on behalf of Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE, President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.
Commending his visionary proposals, Engr. Aledu remarked, “Engr. Ofoeyeno’s ideas offer a practical roadmap for building a flood-resilient Nigeria. His voice is one the engineering profession and our nation must listen to—especially now.”
As flood risks increase, the call has been made clear: Engineers, urban planners, and government agencies must act now to implement sustainable flood control measures that will protect lives, infrastructure, and the environment.
