Flood Alert: Kwara urges residents to support prevention efforts

By Muyideen Aliyu

Kwara State Government has urged residents to support efforts to protect the possibility of heavy rainfall and flooding in parts of the state.

This was made known by the State Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge, said the warning became necessary following flood alerts issued by the NIMET, NIHSA and the Federal Ministry of Environment, which identified the State among at risk of flooding.

She noted that the government had intensified preventive measures, including desilting drainage channels and strengthening collaboration with the State Emergency Management Agency and Climate/Ecology Units across the 16 Local Government Areas.

The Commissioner, stressed that government efforts could only succeed with the support and cooperation of residents and urged citizens to avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drainage channels.

She enjoined citizens to refrain from activities that obstruct waterways, and comply with directives aimed at reducing flood risks.

Residents in flood-prone communities, particularly in Jebba, Bode-Saadu, Kosubosu, Kaiama, Lafiagi and Patigi, were advised to relocate to safer locations where necessary and remain vigilant throughout the rainy season.

She appealed to the store traditional and community leaders to help spread flood safety messages in local languages to ensure wider awareness and compliance.

“Protecting lives and property is a collective responsibility. We call on all residents to support government interventions and take necessary precautions to reduce the impact of flooding,” she emphasized.