FG set to construct dams across Nigeria to mitigate flooding, erosion
…Commissions 1.2km Idye River Basin erosion control drainage
By Titus Atondu, Makurdi
The Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday revealed its administration resolved to construct dams across the country to mitigate the devastating effect of flood and erosion.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, (SGF) Sen. George Akume made the disclosure at the commissioning and handing over of the 1.2km Idye River Basin Erosion Control/Hydraulic Drainage Project executed by the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission, (N-HYPPADEC) in Makurdi the state capital.
Represented by the Minister for Water Resources and Sanitation Prof. Joseph Utsev, SGF expressed worry over the devastation caused by erosion and flooding that has displaced so many communities in the country and loss of lives.
He explained that the FG is taking steps to address land degradation, maintaining that the Idye basin project will go a.long way in protecting the environment and the livelihood of the residents.
“We are committed to constructing dams across the nation to mitigate the menacing effect of flood that has ravaged many communities and Benue State will not be left out,” the SGF said.
Managing Director, HYPPADEC, Abubakar Sadique lamented that flooding has consumed thousands of home and farmland.
18349 homes and farmland have been washed away while 134,797 people displaced,” MD disclosed.
Sadique said the FG spent over N700 million for the first phase of the project, even as he urged the community to remain vigilant and maintain the project for the benefit of the people.
Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, represented by his Deputy Barrister Sam Ode mni, said the construction of the project is a testament to the Federal government’s proactive steps to address erosion and flood challenges in Benue State.
He noted that flooding has adversely affected safety and livelihood of the people, stressing that the flood control project will serve as a beacon of hope for the communities along the Idye trough.
“This project underscores the government’s proactive effort to address environmental issues. Flooding has caused destruction and loss of lives. Regular maintenance of projects is very crucial.
“We promised that the State will provide the technical expertise to sustain the project. Benue has contributed immensely to N-HYPPADEC and we need more representation to sustain our partnership,” he added.
