RISK MANAGEMENT—AN ESSENTIAL ASPECT OF PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION
The Environmental and Social Safeguards team of the World Bank has concluded its 2-days handholding Mission to Kogi State.
The experts, Mr. Lucky Erhaze and Mr. Elijah Siakpere were in the State to oversee workplace safety and ensure that the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) and Occupational Health Safety (OHS) standards for all Project Sites are adhered to, as a way of preventing workplace mishaps.
The Project Coordinator, Kogi ACReSAL, Barr. Ladi Ahmed Jatto (OON), while welcoming the team to Etahi, Okene Gully Stabilization Site, and Omigbo Water Channelization in Kabba, stated the causes of the devastating gullies that had destroyed lives and properties in these communities for decades, to include:
1. Storm Water run-off from the rocky hills in Okene.
2. Poor waste management, and
3. In adequate drainage channels.
“The two-year contract was signed in July 2024; 12 months later, in OMIGBO, we have reached 94% and Etahi 80% completed; and to achieve this, we adhered to the ESMP and OHS guidelines” … said the Project Coordinator.
The PC also used the opportunity to thank His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, a lover of Environmental Protection, for his Administration’s continued support in ensuring the absolute success of all Projects in Kogi State; she equally thanked the Hon. Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Hon. (Engr.) Joseph Oluwasegun, his support, which has made Project Implementation smooth and unhindered.
The team from the Bank, Mr. Lucky Erhaze and Mr. Elijah Siakpere in their separate remarks said they were in the State to assist in strengthening Environmental Safeguards and Occupational Health Safety at construction sites; they emphasized that ADEQUATE RISK MANAGEMENT must be always enforced, as it is essential for Project Implementation.
After undertaking a tour of the Etahi and Omigbo Sites, the visiting team commended the Contractor for adhering to proper usage of PPE, as well as maintaining an organized, clean and healthy Site Yard.
They equally acknowledged the Project Coordinator’s efforts in ensuring proper coordination, which has birthed great teamwork spirit at the SPMU; they therefore encouraged the SPMU not to rest on its oars, as consistent supervision and monitoring of Contractors’ activities on Site, holds the keys to Project success and sustainability.
