Kwara State Govt. launches campaign on flooding in riverine areas

The Kwara state government has launched a campaign to sensitize those living in the riverine areas of the state in order to avert further loss of lives and property to flooding.

The state’s Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Musa-Buge, led the sensitisation team to Gbaradogi village in the Patigi Local Government Area on Friday.

The commissioner, while appealing to the people of the affected areas to relocate to safer places and avoid disaster, said government was committed to public safety.

“The current administration is deeply concerned about the impending flood situation and will therefore take proactive measures to ensure the safety of lives and property as well as avoid outbreak of communicable diseases.

“I urge those residing in riverine communities to heed to warnings, by relocating to higher grounds or the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp provided by the state government.

“I am also against travelling by river during rainy season, to prevent boat mishaps,” she said.

The Commissioner stressed the importance of obtaining necessary approvals from relevant government agencies before embarking on whatever construction and avoid building houses close to or on waterways.

“Residents should follow government’s directives on evacuation as provided by the state’s Ministry of Environment and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).

“Also, the state government will continue to provide necessary relief and support for affected communities, while encouraging sustainable living practices,” she said.

Alhaji Ndatsadu Muhammad, the Village Head of Gbaradogi, commended government’s initiatives, saying they would go a long way in preventing loss of lives and property in riverine areas.

Muhammad, however, requested for more relief materials to assist those affected, particularly in the provision of food and potable water.

NAN / Foluke Ibitomi