The Federal Government has been urged by the House of Representatives to urgently strengthen flood control infrastructure and bolster disaster preparedness efforts, particularly in areas prone to recurrent flooding across the country.
This call comes in response to the devastating flood incident in Mokwa, Niger State, which claimed many lives and caused significant destruction to property.
The lawmakers made this appeal during the presentation of a motion of urgent public importance, which sought immediate intervention following the recent floods. The motion was sponsored by Representatives Joshua Audu Gana and Saba Ahmed Umaru.
The House emphasized that enhancing flood management systems is crucial to averting the annual disasters caused by seasonal rainfall.
It also called on the Federal Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to provide affected communities with vital relief materials, particularly water purification equipment, to help prevent disease outbreaks linked to contaminated water.
While leading the debate, Hon. Gana recounted that the floods, which struck in late May, severely impacted parts of Niger and Kwara states. He revealed that the disaster led to the confirmed deaths of over 500 individuals, with more than 600 others still missing and presumed dead. Additionally, at least 200 people sustained injuries, and over 4,000 homes were destroyed by the floods.
Gana went on to commend the swift response of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who donated ₦2 billion through Vice President Kashim Shettima, and also acknowledged the ₦1 billion donation from the Niger State Governor, alongside contributions from non-governmental organizations and compassionate Nigerians.
The House’s resolution reinforces the urgent need for a proactive and sustainable approach to disaster management in Nigeria, ensuring that vulnerable communities are protected and adequately supported before, during, and after flooding events.
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