The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to tackling Nigeria’s flooding challenges during the inaugural meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee on Dam Evaluation.
The meeting, chaired by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engineer Joseph Utsev, had Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun as a participant
Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga in a statement pointed out that the committee was established following the devastating floods in Maiduguri and surrounding areas.
The disaster he said prompted a discussion during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on September 23, 2024.
The statement quoted the Council to have stressed the need for immediate action, including the creation of a Disaster Relief Fund to support disaster-stricken communities.
According to the statement the Inter-Ministerial Committee’s mandate is to assess the structural safety of dams across the country, evaluate their impact on local communities, and develop a comprehensive plan to mitigate flood risks.
Utsev highlighted the urgency of the initiative, given the recurring flooding issues exacerbated by climate change.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Edun pointed out that while the immediate focus is on the Borno floods, the government has been preparing for such disasters nationwide. He noted that earlier in the year, the government allocated funds to states for flood mitigation efforts.
Additionally, he indicated that President Tinubu has approved the establishment of a separate committee tasked with creating a Disaster Relief Fund.
“This fund, which will involve private sector leadership, aims to enhance the country’s disaster response capabilities.”
The government’s efforts mark a renewed focus on national disaster preparedness, as the risks posed by extreme weather events and climate change continue to escalate.