Kebbi sets up 16-man committee to mitigate flood disaster

In response to an NIMET forecast predicting severe flooding in Kebbi State due to the convergence of water from the rivers Guinea, Jallon, Gambia and Niger, the state government has formed a 16-member committee to manage the impending disaster.

At a meeting held in the cabinet office conference hall in Birnin Kebbi, the deputy governor and committee chairman, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, emphasised the government’s collective commitment to mitigating the effects of the expected floods.

He stressed the need for proactive measures to prevent and manage the disaster.

“Kebbi State has been severely impacted by flooding in the past, leading to loss of lives and livelihoods, destruction of infrastructure and property, displacement of communities, and negative effects on agriculture and food security,” Tafida said.

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He explained that the committee’s primary objective was to assess the current situation, identify critical needs and develop a comprehensive flood management strategy.

He said the state government was also exploring avenues for federal assistance, including engaging with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.

“International partnerships and support from various organisations will also be sought where necessary,” the deputy governor added.