Benue to mitigate flooding

The Benue State Government has announced that it has implemented measures to mitigate flooding in the state.

Odoh Ugwu, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, disclosed that the proactive step was taken following alerts issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) regarding expected flooding in designated areas across Benue later this year.

Adressing journalists, Ugwu, cautioned residents living along coastal areas to relocate their households to higher grounds to avoid the anticipated flooding.

He said, “Upon receiving the alert from NiMet, our first action was to inform and create awareness among the people. We utilised various communication channels, including radio, television and physical visits to communities in flood-prone areas, to urge residents to relocate before the floods arrive.

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“We have also provided havens where affected individuals can stay temporarily, assuring them that their needs will be taken care of until the flood season is over.

“Furthermore, we have initiated drainage clearing activities in urban centres and surrounding areas to prevent flooding. This effort will be ongoing to safeguard our citizens from the adverse effects of flooding.”