By Peter Jatau, National Assembly Correspondent
Abuja, July 10, 2025 — The House of Representatives Committee on Hydrological Services (HYPPADEC) has called on the Federal Government to urgently implement proactive and preventive measures to mitigate the impact of flooding across the country.
The call was made during an interactive session with key stakeholders held at the National Assembly in Abuja. Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Paschal Agbodike, PhD, led the session, expressing serious concern over the recurring flood disasters that continue to claim lives and destroy property.
The session was convened following a motion presented by Hon. Joshua Audu Gana, who represents Lavun/Mokwa/Edati Federal Constituency in Niger State. Gana highlighted the devastating effects of recent flooding in Mokwa, which resulted in multiple fatalities and the destruction of properties worth millions of naira.
Hon. Agbodike, while addressing the gathering, said, “Our meeting today aims to explore effective measures to mitigate flood risks and enhance preparedness, thereby improving our disaster response systems.” He emphasized that flooding has become a persistent challenge, worsened by climate change, rapid urbanization, and weak infrastructure.
Specific attention was given to the conditions surrounding the Mokwa, Kainji, and Jebba Dams, as well as flood-prone communities in Anambra State such as Ihiala and Ogbaru. Agbodike urged relevant ministries and agencies to prioritize infrastructural maintenance, community engagement, climate action, and improved early-warning systems.
He further tasked agencies to raise public awareness and foster community-based solutions to build resilience against natural disasters.
In his remarks, Hon. Gana reiterated the dire situation in his constituency, where flooding has caused untold hardship. “The losses suffered by my constituents are heartbreaking. We must act swiftly to prevent further tragedies,” he said.
During the session, environmental experts, including the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer from the relevant ministry, provided technical insights. They attributed the Mokwa flooding to a combination of poorly constructed railway lines that blocked natural drainage, highway flooding, and inadequate culvert systems compounded by debris accumulation.
Also in attendance was the Chairman of Mokwa Local Government Area, Hon. Jubrin Abdullahi Muregi, who lauded the resolutions reached during the meeting. He stressed that the recommended preventive actions, if implemented, would go a long way in averting future disasters.
The session concluded with a strong commitment from lawmakers and stakeholders to collaborate on long-term, sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s recurring flood problems.
