From Ben Dunno, Warri
A group, Delta Riverine Communities Infrastructural Development Initiatives (DRCIDI), has stressed the need for the Federal Government to hasten the process of participation in the West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) Resilience Investment Project, in order to access the world bank funding for the development of the riverine communities across the country.
DRCIDI, operating under the umbrella body of Motivated Youth And Children Empowerment Foundation (MY-ACE Foundation) and had been at the forefront of the ongoing agitation for an holistic development plans for the riverine settlements, especially the oil producing communities in Delta State.
The body, in a statement by its chairman, Samuel Besidone Eyengho, yesterday in Warri, also canvassed that the ongoing Lagos-Calabar coastal road be extended to communities such as Escravos, Forcados and Benin River, where multi-nationals oil firms are still operating in the state.
While commending the renewed commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration towards developing the Niger Delta region, the body urged the Federal Government to take advantage of the alternative funding bodies like WACA.
The statement read: “We, the members of the above advocacy group hereby call on the Federal Government to expedite participation in the West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) Resilience Investment Project to develop coastal communities along Escravos, Forcados, Benin River, and other coastal areas that are very critical for several reasons.
“The call has become imperative putting into consideration the financial constraints under President Tinubu’s administration, even as we are aware of the availability of substantial funds from the World Bank to intervene in critical areas of developmental and social impact projects.
“The WACA project, in particular, is a prime example of such funds that can go a long way in creating social and economic impact in the communities that are affected by coastal erosion.
“We consider the urgent need for intervention in coastal communities along Escravos, Forcados, and the Benin River as they face severe challenges, including environmental degradation and existential threats from oil and gas operations, as well as the impacts of climate change. These communities are in dire need of interventions to mitigate these effects.
“While we appreciate the ongoing coastal road from Lagos to Calabar spanning approximately 853 km, the body stated that these coastal areas are economically, ecologically, and socially significant in the development of the region as it would spur economic growth, enhance environmental sustainability, and improve the livelihoods of local communities.
“Consequently, accelerating Nigeria’s participation in this laudable project directs the much needed attention towards the development of these coastal communities, which align with the WACA programme’s goals, which are focused on enhancing coastal resilience and addressing the challenges along the West African coastline. This targeted intervention will lead to significant progress at both national and regional levels.
“The WACA project offers an opportunity for the strategic use of resources to address critical issues, such as coastal erosion, ocean surges, flooding, pollution, and mangrove depletion in these areas. This ensures that the investments have measurable impacts and contribute to sustainable development.
“In the area of community engagement and empowerment, WACA is expected to play a significant role in actively engaging with the local stakeholders when deploying funds to develop the coastal regions. This inclusive approach allows communities to participate in decision-making processes, empowering them to take ownership of development initiatives and fostering long-term resilience.
“Given these considerations, it is imperative for the Federal Government to grant Nigeria’s access to the WACA project, which many other West African countries have benefitted from since 2018. With the renewed hope agenda of this administration, prompt action is needed to restore hope to these impacted communities through the WACA project, particularly those in the Niger Delta region”.
“This action will address their critical challenges, unlock potential for sustainable development, and enhance the overall resilience of Nigeria’s coastal zones.”