Editor
By Fatima Saka
Engr. Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, Nigeria’s Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, has proposed measures to address the country’s recurring flooding challengee.
Speaking at the 145th National Economic Council Meeting on Thursday led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Professor Utsev highlighted the need for the construction of new dams, desilting of existing ones, and the clearing of major rivers like the Benue and Niger.
He emphasized the importance of installing hydrological equipment and implementing dam safety practices to reduce flood risks.
In an ongoing effort, the Ministry of Water Resources is developing dams nationwide to help mitigate flood impacts on homes, farms, and infrastructure.
Professor Utsev also shared that the Technical Sub-Committee on Evaluation of Dams is assessing dam conditions across Nigeria, with findings set to be presented to the President after review by the Inter-Ministerial Committee.
Borno State was noted as the worst-affected area, with floods impacting all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory this year.
Also, Professor Utsev highlighted the role of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) in promoting flood risk assessment through data analytics and modeling. Since 2013, NIHSA has issued eleven Annual Flood Outlooks to increase awareness about flood preparedness and environmental safety.
The Minister further urged state governors to discourage construction on waterways and ensure drainage channels are maintained, aiming to minimize flood damage nationwide.
