Towards addressing ecological degradation in the country, the Federal Government on Thursday commissioned Flood Control/Dyke Project in Benue State.
The project is part of efforts to reverse ecological degradation in the country and promote sustainable developments in riverine communities.
Speaking at the Commissioning on behalf of the Federal Government, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, represented by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, noted that a similar project was commissioned in Kogi State last month, while many more will be commissioned throughout June, July, and August across the country.
He said "No doubt, Nigeria is faced with numerous ecological challenges, chief amongst which is the environmental destruction consistently caused by floods and gully erosion in our communities. This project, which we are here to commission, represents an important step towards taming this challenge here in the Nyiman area.
"The Presidency recognizes the importance of a healthy and green environment for the development of our country.
"That is why agencies such as N-HYPPADEC are created. Your Excellency, the Governor, you may please note that the N-HYPPADEC was created to address the economic, environmental and social challenges facing the hydro-electric power producing communities.
"Some communities in Benue state suffer untold hardship due to the presence of River Benue and inflow and outflows from the river bank.
"The task of reversing environmental damages occasioned by floods and erosion over the years is definitely not an easy one."
According to him, it requires meticulous and long-term planning that should be executed in stages.
He added "This flood control project, which we are here to commission today, is only one of the early steps taken by the Commission towards reversing ecological degradation and promoting sustainable developments in riverine communities across the country.
"To promote environmental conservation in Nigeria, it became imperative that the N-HYPPADEC put in place the necessary infrastructure to reverse environmental degradation caused by floods and erosion. It was against this backdrop, and under our supervision, that the Commission embarked on a number of flood control projects.
"We have commissioned one of those projects at Koton Karfe, in Kogi State, last month, and we have many more to commission throughout June, July, and August by the Special Grace of Almighty God." he said
The SGF also said the massive infrastructure of the Benue project will have a lasting impact on the lives and livelihoods of the Nyiman community.
"This Flood Control/Dyke Project, spanning a distance of 1.2 kilometers, is a shining example of what can be achieved when government agencies, private sector partners and local communities come together with a shared purpose.
"The project will not only protect the environment and infrastructure but will also safeguard the lives and livelihoods of countless individuals who call this region home."
The project, he said, would not have been possible without the support of the Benue State Government and its people.
He therefore called on every member of the community to ensure that the infrastructure remains resilient and effective ahead of future challenges.
The SGF also thanked all the stakeholders who contributed to the success of the project.
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