Kogi, known as the confluence state because it is the location where River Niger and Benue meet, has had its fair share of flooding incidents over the years. In Koton-Karfe, the National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) commissioned a N420 million flood control project which it hopes will mitigate flooding in the state. YEKINI JIMOH writes.
Flooding is one the major disasters that affect nine local government areas in Kogi State. These local government areas are Kogi, Lokoja, Ajaokuta, Idah Igalamela/Odolu, Ibaji, Omala and Bassa and Ofu local government areas.
The flooding they experience is due to the presence of Rivers Niger and Benue, and this usually occurs during the rainy season.
The effect of the flooding is usually highest in Ibaji and Koton-Karfe communities. For example, the 2022 floods which ravaged various parts of the country, resulted in untold human suffering and economic losses.
The effects of the 2022 flood disaster were felt far and near, disrupting vital routes that connect different regions of the country.
Koton-Karfe was not spared as it affected the residents of this community. The gridlock that ensued at Koton Karfe on the Abuja-Lokoja highway served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive flood control measures in this area.
Properties worth millions of naira were lost while some people also lost their lives to the flood disaster.
The incident would for a long time be remembered as one of the tragic moments as one of the most important roads linking the northern and southern parts of the country got completely submerged by floodwaters.
Already, Nigeria Meteorological Agency’s (NiMet) forecast has said that there will be flooding in some states including Kogi this year. To this effect, the National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has commenced line drainage of highly flood prone areas in Koton-Karfe town.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, recently commissioned a N420 million flood control project through N-HYPPADEC in Koton-Karfe.
The SGF, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Simon Tyungu, noted that the 2022 floods, which ravaged various parts of the country, including Koton Karfe, resulted in untold human suffering and economic disruption.
According to him, “It was in the light of these pressing realities that the Federal Government through N-HYPPADEC took decisive action to address the root causes of flooding and mitigate its impact here in Kogi and other states where the Commission operates.”
He mentioned that the construction of the Koton Karfe Flood Control Project “stands as a testament to Mr President’s resolve to ameliorate the sufferings of the people it is meant to serve. On this note, I commend the entire management team of N-HYPPADEC, with special acknowledgment to the Managing Director, for their tireless efforts in ensuring the successful completion of this project.
“With the inauguration of this critical infrastructure, and the commitment of the commission to replicate efforts like these in other flood-prone communities, we can look forward to a future where the specter of devastating floods no longer looms over our communities. This project aligns with the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It is one of the several markers signifying that we are moving into a new era of resilience and progress for our nation.”
According to him, “The completion of this project is just the beginning of our journey towards a safer and more secure future. It is incumbent upon each and every member of this community to actively participate in the maintenance and upkeep of this infrastructure.
“I urge all community and traditional leaders here present, as well as youth organisations, to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring that the flood control measures remain effective and operational.
“Let us also pledge to uphold our civic duty by refraining from activities that could compromise the integrity of this vital infrastructure, such as dumping of refuse into the water ways. Together, we can safeguard our community against the threat of future floods and preserve the legacy of progress that we have worked so hard to achieve.”
The Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, Mallam Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, in his address noted that the project, representing an investment of about N420 million, stands not just as a physical structure but as a symbol of resilience, unity and collective action.
His words: “The drainage spans a total length of 625 metres, comprising various components. We have integrated a line stretching 499.5 metres, complemented by an earth drain of 125.5 metres. Intersecting these drains are four double cell culverts, strategically placed to facilitate water flow. To enhance accessibility within the vicinity, we have incorporated three pedestrian bridges for safer passage of residents and commuters.
“Additionally, to manage surface runoff efficiently, inlet block line drains totaling 161 metres have been installed along the drainage route, with a stone-pitched area of 550 metres to avoid erosion and ensure longevity and stability in the face of harsh weather conditions.
“Beyond flood mitigation, the health benefits of this drainage system are substantial. By preventing recurrent flooding, we are safeguarding public health by reducing the risk of waterborne diseases, mold growth and other health hazards associated with stagnant water and flooding. Furthermore, the improved drainage will enhance environmental hygiene and overall well-being within the community.
Also speaking, the Kogi State Commissioner for Environment, Mr Victor Adewale Omofaiye said: “Kogi State is strategically located and flood will always come when we least expect. Now that we even heard that going by NiMET prediction flood is coming again, we have embarked on mitigation measures.”
He said that the state had planned to embark on an afforestation programme as part of measures to mitigate flooding and erosion menace across the 10 most affected Local Government Areas.
Alhaji Isa Ozi-Salami, member representing Kogi State on the board of N-HYPPADEC, also speaking thanked the Koton-Karfe community for their cooperation with the Commission.
He assured that the commission would do everything possible to assist and comfort the riverine communities.
At the palace of Ohimege-Igu of Koton-Karfe, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Sani Isah-Koto in an emotion-laden voice said, “Our fears have started growing again with the rains coming.”
The traditional father said the coming of the rains every year sends jitters down the spines of the community members, but quickly commended N-HYPPADEC for their relentless efforts in providing succour for the communities.
Isah-Koto, who later accompanied the N-HYPPADEC team to the project sites, described the community as a peace-loving one and assured that the erosion control project being executed by the commission will be secure and maintained now that it has been completed.
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