Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has expressed deep concern over the devastating impact of floods that have affected more than 40,000 households across the state this year. Speaking during an oversight visit by the House of Representatives committee on ecological funds, Governor Namadi revealed that 23 out of the 27 local government areas in Jigawa State have been severely impacted by the floods.
The committee, led by its chairman, Dr. Aminu Jaji, visited the flood-stricken areas to assess the situation and explore potential solutions to mitigate the effects of such disasters. In a statement released on Wednesday evening by Jamilu Magaji, the media aide to Dr. Jaji, the committee identified climate change, deforestation, desertification, and land degradation as major factors contributing to the recurring floods in Nigeria.
During the visit, Dr. Jaji emphasized the importance of addressing these environmental challenges to prevent future flooding. He assured the governor that the committee would advocate for sustainable land management practices and climate change control measures to protect vulnerable communities.
Governor Namadi, in his response, expressed gratitude for the committee's visit and highlighted the severe consequences of the floods. He noted that approximately 7,000 houses were destroyed or submerged, and around 6,500 farmlands were devastated by the heavy rainfall. Additionally, close to 8,000 people, mostly from affected households, have been displaced and are currently taking refuge in various informal camps within the state.
To combat the frequent occurrence of such disasters, the governor mentioned that his administration has initiated the planting of 5.5 million trees across Jigawa State as part of their environmental protection efforts. He called on the committee to support the state in implementing further measures to secure the environment and prevent future flooding.
The House committee's visit to Jigawa State is part of a broader effort to assess flood-affected states across Nigeria and develop strategies to mitigate the impact of natural disasters on vulnerable communities.
