Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu has attributed the persistent flooding experienced in parts of the state to the impact of climate change, warning that prolonged rainfall is disrupting road construction and increasing pressure on drainage infrastructure. The governor said his administration is adopting innovative solutions to ensure infrastructure projects remain durable despite changing weather patterns.
Key Highlights:
- Gov. Bassey Otu blames flooding on the impact of climate change.
- Prolonged rainfall reducing the construction window for road projects.
- Cross River exploring stronger alternatives to conventional asphalt.
- Government assessing chemical-based road construction materials in laboratories.
- Governor orders expansion and reconstruction of drainage channels.
- Contractors directed to accelerate ongoing road projects despite the rainy season.
Governor Otu made the remarks while inspecting major drainage channels across the Calabar metropolis to assess the causes of recurring flooding and evaluate ongoing flood control measures.
According to the governor, the traditional distinction between the dry and rainy seasons has become increasingly blurred, making infrastructure development more challenging.
“It is very clear that climate change is affecting us. What used to be two distinct seasons now almost feels like one long rainy season, and that is creating serious challenges for road construction,” Otu said.
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He disclosed that the state government is conducting research into more resilient road construction materials capable of withstanding prolonged rainfall and extreme weather conditions.
According to him, alternative chemical-based materials, which are expected to be stronger and more durable than conventional asphalt, are currently undergoing laboratory testing.
“We have been carrying out research to see if we can get chemical substances that are more resilient and stronger than asphalt. Some are already in the laboratory because we must continue delivering durable infrastructure despite the changing weather conditions,” he added.
During the inspection, the governor observed that several drainage channels across Calabar require expansion, while others need complete reconstruction to improve stormwater evacuation and reduce flooding in vulnerable communities.
He directed contractors handling critical infrastructure projects within the Calabar metropolis to intensify work and maintain project timelines despite the persistent rainfall.
Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering quality infrastructure that meets modern engineering standards while adapting to the realities of climate change.
Speaking after inspecting the Parliamentary Extension Road project, he disclosed that he had met with the contractor to assess the company’s readiness to sustain construction activities throughout the rainy season.
The governor urged the contractor to expedite the project while ensuring that construction quality is not compromised.
