Northern Senators seek permanent solution to flooding in Niger State

Serving senators under the aegis of Northern Senators’ forum Wednesday sought for permanent solution to flooding in Shiroro , Niger State .

The Senators in a statement by Chairman of the forum, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua ( Katsina Central), specifically demanded for development and implementation of a Shiroro Flood Management Master Plan .

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The Master plan according to the Senators , should include a scientifically determined flood-buffer operating strategy for the Shiroro, Kainji and Jebba dams; a permanent flood forecasting and early-warning system with trained local volunteers downstream; and a comprehensive floodplain resettlement programme that provides planned settlements, compensation and livelihood support for affected persons.

They added that an independent technical review of dam operations, reservoir capacity and spillway performance in light of current climate realities must be conducted to determine how future releases are managed.

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They commended National Emergency Management Agency ( NEMA) for the intervention made so far in providing relief materials for victims but noted with concern that flooding has become a recurring pattern in Shiroro and other riverine communities.

“Short-term measures must therefore be activated immediately. We urge the Federal and State Governments, in collaboration with local authorities, to ensure timely distribution of relief materials to verified victims, provide temporary shelters with basic health and sanitation services, and deploy emergency evacuation and early-warning teams in all flood-prone areas before the peak of the rainy season. Communities must also be sensitized to heed safety advisories and avoid building on water channels .

“The 2025 Mokwa tragedy and the 2025 vulnerability study showing that 32% of Shiroro LGA is highly prone to flooding remind us that inaction will continue to cost lives and property”, they warned just as they commiserated with families who have lost loved ones, homes, farms, businesses and livelihoods to the unfortunate disaster.

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