In a significant milestone, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, has commissioned the Patigi Erosion and Flood Control Project in Patigi Town, Kwara State.
Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, representing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation hailed the project as a turning point in the fight against environmental challenges and a testament to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government’s commitment to improving the lives of citizens.
SGF said: “This Erosion and Flood Control Dyke provides a solution to this long-standing issue. A well-connected drainage system that offers a convenient network for water flow, ultimately emptying into the river.
“Thus, laying a solid foundation for the people of Patigi to build upon in terms of town planning and flood prevention.
“It will also have far-reaching impacts such as protecting critical healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that medical services remain accessible even during extreme weather events, as well as safeguarding homes and businesses and providing peace of mind to residents and entrepreneurs alike.”
Abubakar Yelwa, Managing Director, the National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), commended the community for their collaboration in combating the devastating effects of the flood and erosion in the Town especially the General Hospital and its environs.
He said the erosion and flood control drainage system consists of two sections spanning 0.75 kilometres with culverts and 0.325 kilometres of drains from various locations, designed to salvage the surrounding land by channelling runoff to the river.
Executive Governor of Kwara State, H E Abdulrasaq Abdulrahman, represented by the State Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Buge, thanked the commission for the laudable intervention. She urged members of the community to actively participate in the maintenance and upkeep of the infrastructure.
Etsu Patigi, His Royal Highness, AlIbrahim Umar Bologi II in his heartfelt remarks urged people to maintain the project, adding that the government had done its part even as he appreciated the government and the N-HYPPADEC, saying, “We’ll continue to ask for more as we look forward to more projects”.
Segun Imohiosen
Director, Information & Public Relations
9th August, 2024.
