Jigawa Deploys Preemptive Measures to Combat Imminent Flooding

The Jigawa State Government has devised a comprehensive plan to combat the imminent threat of flooding in the state.

The initiative, spearheaded by Governor Umar Namadi, is a preemptive action following the devastating floods that hit the state in 2022, which flooded 1,554 villages, affected 22 local government areas, and claimed the lives of 130 individuals.

In a press release, the government presented a multi-pronged strategy for preventing flooding, focusing on vulnerable populations and preventing another disaster.

The focal point of the mitigation strategy is the construction of embankments along flood-ravaged areas.

The embankments, at least 2.5 meters high and four meters wide, are being erected at critical locations to serve as cushions against increased water levels.

The state government has thus far built approximately 85 to 90 kilometers of embankments, which are providing relief and protection to 35 communities spanning eight local government areas. All these have been executed under a broader plan recommended by a technical committee on flood prevention established by the state government.

To improve water flow and reduce clogging, the government also initiated dredging operations along the Hadejia River.

Two amphibious excavators are specially bought by the state for the exercise. The dredging aims to clear aquatic weeds and deepen the riverbed to reduce the chances of overflows during rainy seasons.

“This is an investment in the long-term security and resilience of our communities,” Governor Namadi declared. “We are committed to acting before disaster, not in its aftermath.”

Emphasizing the importance of local involvement, the government created a nine-member committee charged with engaging residents and community leaders in the impacted regions. This committee is charged with raising awareness, creating dialogue, and assuring community collaboration with the flood prevention initiatives in progress.

Apart from this, Jigawa State is also working with neighboring Yobe State on joint flood containment strategies. The two states have their officials collaborating on assessing and installing embankment structures along their shared border, but particularly on the Jigawa corridor that is at high risk from floods.

This proactive initiative is a significant shift from previous years, with more emphasis on prevention and readiness. The state’s integrated response is evidence of increased emphasis on climate resilience, infrastructure expansion, and public safety.

“We cannot afford to have a repeat of 2022 disaster,” Governor Namadi said. “Our administration is determined to save lives and livelihood from the impacts of flooding, today and tomorrow.”

The Jigawa State Government has called upon federal agencies, development partners, and members of the public to join it and make its ambitious flood mitigation programme a resounding success.