The National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has expressed deep sympathy for farmers in Argungu Local Council and other affected regions in Kebbi and Niger States who have suffered losses due to recent flooding.
In a statement released in Minna by Nura Tanko Wakili, the Head of Press and Public Affairs for the commission, the incident was described as a grave concern that could undermine the country’s efforts toward sustainability and food security.
The Commission’s Managing Director, Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, highlighted the significant impact of the disaster on the affected communities and praised the Federal Government for its swift action in allocating N3 billion to aid the victims.
Previously, the Commission had launched awareness campaigns through mass media and conducted advocacy visits, which helped mitigate the impact of the flood on riverine areas. Despite these efforts, farmlands, particularly those on flood plains, were severely affected by the disaster.
The statement also emphasized the importance of adhering to safety measures, as predictions by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) indicate rising water levels in the Rivers Rima and Niger. Additionally, reports from the Niger Basin Authority (NBA) in Niamey, Niger Republic, suggest further potential flooding due to upstream activities in Niger and Mali.
N-HYPPADEC assured that NIHSA will continue to monitor the flood situation and provide regular updates to the public. The Commission urged communities to stay alert, follow news updates on radio and television, and comply with safety instructions from relevant authorities.
