The Nigerian Senate has called on President Bola Tinubu to promptly initiate the dredging of the Rivers Niger and Benue to address escalating flooding risks. In a recent session, the Senate directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to connect with flood-affected communities and provide essential relief materials to victims.
Additionally, the Senate urged the President to ensure that funding for the dredging is included in the 2025 budget. The Upper Chamber also requested the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to assist in rehabilitating crucial infrastructure, such as the Shuwa, Jigalambu, and Baladega Bridges. A committee on legislative compliance was mandated to monitor the implementation of these resolutions by NEMA and FERMA.
Earlier this year, during an emergency session, the Senate resolved to integrate the dredging of both rivers, along with other river projects, into the 2024 Appropriation Bill, aiming to mitigate the recurring issue of flooding across the nation.
These recent resolutions arose from a motion sponsored by Senator Amos K. Yohanna of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), representing Adamawa North. He highlighted the severe flooding that wreaked havoc in five local government areas within his district: Madagali, Maiha, Michika, Mubi North, and Mubi South. The floods resulted in widespread destruction of homes and farmland.
Senator Yohanna stated, “The Senate notes that there was massive flooding that caused catastrophic destruction in the five local governments of Adamawa North senatorial district.” He further detailed the aftermath, reporting the loss of hundreds of homes, agricultural lands, and vital infrastructure, including culverts and bridges in Shuwa (Madagali LGA), Jigalambu, Watu, Kudzum (Michika LGA), and the Baladega Bridge along the Mubi-Maiha road. Tragically, the floods also led to the loss of lives