The House of Representatives Committee on Hydrological Services (HYPPADEC) has called on the federal government and its relevant agencies to implement precautionary measures in order to prevent flooding across the country.
The chairman of the Committee Hon Paschal Agbodike PhD, started this during an interactive session with relevant stakeholders at the National Assembly in Abuja.
Hon Agbodike expressed concern over the killings occasion by the flood and urge the agencies and ministries to adopt preventive actions, which have resulted in the loss of lives and properties.
The session was initiated following a motion moved by Hon. Joshua Audu Gana, the representative of Lavun/Mokwa/Edati Federal Constituency in Niger State.
Hon. Agbodike PhD, explained the devastating impact of recent floods in Mokwa, which led to significant loss of life and property amounting to millions of naira, therefore advocated for proactive measures and effective solutions to address flooding and disaster management nationwide.
The discussions focused specifically on the Mokwa, Kainji, and Jebba Dams, as well as areas like Ihiala and Ogbaru in Anambra State. Hon. Agbodike pointed out that flooding has become a persistent issue in Nigeria, exacerbated by climate change, urbanization, and inadequate infrastructure.
“Our meeting today aims to explore effective measures to mitigate flood risks and enhance preparedness, thereby improving our disaster response systems,” stated Hon. Agbodike. He urged relevant agencies to create public awareness, engage communities, and improve forecasting and early warning signs to the communities for preventive measures .
He also emphasized the importance of infrastructural maintenance and adopting measures to address climate change in the country.
Hon. Gana, who introduced the motion, expressed his deep concern for the significant loss and suffering experienced by his constituents due to flooding. He urged for the need for solutions to this crisis.
Environmental experts, including the Director General and Chief Executive Officer from the relevant ministry, provided valuable insights during the session. They noted that the recent flooding in Mokwa was primarily caused by poorly designed railway lines, which hinder proper drainage. Other contributing factors included highway flooding, inadequate culvert systems, and accumulation of debris on highways.
Chairman of Mokwa, Hon. Jubrin Abdullahi Muregi, expressed satisfaction with the meeting and its resolutions. He emphasized that the recommended preventive measures are crucial and expressed hope that such flooding incidents could be avoided in the future.
