N’East stakeholders hail Tinubu over N80bn flood intervention fund

The North East Stakeholders Forum for Sustainable Development has lauded President Bola Tinubu's recent approval of N80 billion for flood control initiatives across Nigeria. The forum described the intervention fund as a crucial and timely measure to address the escalating threat of flooding in vulnerable areas.

In a joint statement, the forum's National Chairman, Murtala Jalingo, and Secretary-General, Danladi Bawa, emphasized that the federal government's allocation comes at a critical juncture. They believe the funds will serve as a proactive step in mitigating the severe consequences of flooding, particularly as warnings of increased flood risks persist due to ongoing rainfall.

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The intervention came at the right time for the right purpose and will undoubtedly serve as a proactive step towards mitigating the devastating impact of flooding in vulnerable communities across the country. We call for more funds to effectively control and address the looming challenge.

The stakeholders expressed confidence that the N80 billion would be judiciously utilized to combat the impact of torrential rains, which threaten widespread flash floods in HYPPADEC member states and other regions of Nigeria. They also called for additional funding to effectively manage and resolve the looming challenge of widespread flooding.

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We believe the money will be judiciously utilised to reduce the impact of the torrential rains that threaten widespread flash floods across HYPPADEC member states and other parts of Nigeria.

Beyond the presidential intervention, the forum extended its commendation to Abubakar Yelwa, the Managing Director of the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC). They recognized Yelwa's proactive efforts and consistent commitment to reducing flood impacts within HYPPADEC member states. The statement highlighted Yelwa's vigorous pursuit of commission projects, regular reviews of ongoing work, and strategic development aimed at enhancing service delivery across member states.

The forum further applauded HYPPADEC for its sustained annual flood preparedness campaigns, which include early sensitization programs in flood-prone communities before the rainy season commences. The commission has also implemented several intervention projects in Gombe and Taraba states designed to improve residents' welfare.

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The Managing Director has continued to pursue the commission’s projects with vigour through regular reviews of ongoing projects, assessment of programme implementation and the development of strategies aimed at improving service delivery across member states.