The Niger state government and Hydro Power Producing Area Development Commission (HYPPADEC) have urged communities within river banks to relocate in order to avoid impending flood disaster this year.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG),Alhaji Ibrahim Ahmed Matane, stated this Tuesday at a stakeholders meeting in Minna.
He said the early warning is part of sensitisation measures government jointly embarked on with the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC).
He said, “Traditional leaders and local government chairmen in the affected communities prone to flooding have been directed to begin sensitisation of the grassroots ahead of pending 2023 flooding to avoid much impart of the disaster.”
He said the state government is committed to ensuring people do not suffer hardship during this year’s flooding, adding that it becomes imperative for communities close to river banks to be sensitive.
The managing Director of HYPPADEC, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, harped on the need to prevent catastrophe from occurring this year.
He said sensitisation of the people on environmental matters was crucial in mitigating the impact of flooding, adding that the results of the program last year helped in reducing the rate of flood casualty as against those recorded previously.
He said, “There is need for attitudinal change of the people in the flood affected communities. They always insist on remaining in their original homes despite the threats.”
