The Nigerian Senate is advocating for the prioritisation of river dredging projects in the 2024 appropriation bill, with a particular focus on the Benue River and other rivers. This move is aimed at addressing the persistent issue of recurrent flooding and its far-reaching consequences.
The motion, which primarily seeks to prevent the loss of lives caused by floods and the imperative need to dredge the Benue River in Adamawa State, was brought forward by Senator Abba Aminu Iya, representing Adamawa Central.
Several other Senators also rallied their support behind this motion, underscoring the urgency of taking necessary measures to facilitate year-round agricultural activities.
Senator Dickson Seriake emphasised the significance of establishing the required mechanisms and stressed the importance of considering all dams beyond the Niger and Benue Rivers, as all water eventually flows through the Niger Delta to the Atlantic Ocean.
Furthermore, the lawmakers have called on President Bola Tinubu to expedite the construction of dams, including the Dasin Hausa Dam proposed for Fufore Local Government Area in Adamawa State. This move aims to mitigate potential risks associated with excessive flooding originating from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.
In addition to these actions, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been urged to provide relief materials to flood victims and engage in awareness campaigns regarding the dangers of crossing rivers before or after heavy rainfall.
These resolutions have been prompted by the recurring floods resulting from the lack of river dredging in the Benue region. According to NEMA, in 2022 alone, over 2.41 million people were displaced, and more than 600 fatalities were recorded, alongside extensive damage to farmland in the affected state.
