The Kwara Government has launched a campaign to sensitise those living in the riverine areas of the state to avert further loss of lives and property to flooding.
Nafisat Musa-Buge, the Kwara state Commissioner for Environment, while leading the campaign team to Gbaradogi village in the Patigi Local Government Area appealed to residents to relocate to safer areas.
She also explained that the Kwara State government has adopted several measures to ensure the safety of people across the states.
“The current administration is deeply concerned about the impending flood situation and will therefore take proactive measures to ensure the safety of lives and property as well as avoid outbreaks of communicable diseases.
“I urge those residing in riverine communities to heed to warnings, by relocating to higher grounds or the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp provided by the state government.
“I am also against travelling by river during the rainy season, to prevent boat mishaps,” she said.
Speaking to property owners, Mrs Musa-Bugethe highlighted the importance of obtaining necessary approvals from relevant government agencies for construction purposes, especially, close to or on waterways.
“Residents should follow the government’s directives on evacuation as provided by the state’s Ministry of Environment and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
“Also, the state government will continue to provide necessary relief and support for affected communities, while encouraging sustainable living practices,” she said.
In his address, the village Head of Gbaradogi, Ndatsadu Muhammad, appreciated the government’s effort to protect the lives and property of the people.
He also called for additional relief materials from the government and other organisations to buffer the challenges experienced by the people.
