The Kaduna State Government has commenced the dredging and expansion of waterways in flood-prone areas to prevent a repeat of the devastating 2024 floods and protect vital infrastructure.
This intervention, spurred by early warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), focuses on critical flashpoints ahead of the 2025 rainy season peak.
Commissioner for Environment, Abubakar Buba, disclosed this on Thursday during an inspection of ongoing dredging works at Ifira in Igabi Local Government Area.
He stated that the government had identified high-risk zones and prioritized them for immediate action.
“We have cleared about 800 metres of a blocked river channel. This will significantly improve water flow and reduce the risk of flooding,” he said.
Buba emphasized the strategic importance of the route, which leads to the Kaduna International Airport, warning that any disruption could severely impact transportation and commercial activity.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring a flood-free season and cautioned residents against indiscriminate dumping of waste in drainage channels and waterways.
To strengthen enforcement, the state has activated a mobile environmental court through the Kaduna Environmental Protection Authority (KEPA) to prosecute offenders.
The dredging initiative is being coordinated by the Ministry of Environment in partnership with the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA), National Orientation Agency (NOA), and other stakeholders.
Buba also revealed that similar projects would soon commence in Zaria, Kafanchan, and parts of the Kaduna metropolis.
Regarding the airport bridge previously threatened by erosion, the commissioner assured that the government was taking all necessary steps to protect both infrastructure and communities.
Sanjay Sharma, Manager of Sun-Agro Soya Oil Refining Company, described the intervention as timely.
“Last year’s floods destroyed farms and disrupted production. This early action by the government is a major relief,” he said.
Malam Balarabe Abubakar, Village Head of Ifira, praised the project, noting its potential to protect farmers from recurring losses.
“Our farmlands used to be washed away. This project means we can finally harvest in peace,” he said.
Chief Disaster Risk Reduction Officer at NEMA, Ikramat Umar Mohd, lauded the state’s proactive approach, emphasizing that prevention remains the most effective form of disaster management.
