An Assessment of the Impact of Nigerian Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) on Gully Erosion Control in Enugu and Abia States

The southeastern Nigeria is besieged by gully erosion with significant ecological, infrastructural, and socio-economic consequences, particularly in Enugu and Abia States that has defiled government efforts until NEWMAP. This study thus, examined the impact of NEWMAP interventions on gully erosion control in Enugu and Abia States. It focused on how the Resettlement Action Plan affected gully erosion control projects and how the Damage Control component addressed the project sustainability. Data came from the primary and secondary sources. Primary data were obtained through key informant interviews and observations. Secondary data were sourced` from text books, internet sources, journal articles, government publications particularly NEWMAP documents. Data from Key Informant Interview and NEWMAP Reports were presented in tables Observational data appeared thematically accompanied with pictorial representations. Secondary data supported these presentations and analysis was done with the descriptive method. Findings revealed that RAP implementation had a significant positive impact by securing community buy-in, compensation and livelihood restoration which facilitated smooth project implementation. The funding arrangement positively impacted the projects by ensuring availability of funds commencement and completion of RAPs and the damage control components. However, haphazard afforestation implementation and non-fixing of emerging gullies adversely affected the project sustainability. Based on these findings, scaling-up and sustaining gully erosion gully control projects by converting NEWMAP into a state Agency is recommended. Revisiting afforestation and addressing new gully formations were also recommended. Institutionalizing state-based sustainable funding mechanisms is also recommended. In conclusion, NEWMAP made undeniable progress in mitigating gully erosion but long-term success will depend on the implementation of the above recommendations.