Olu Samuel, Lokoja

THE Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume on Thursday commissioned N420 million naira flood control project through the National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) in Koton-karfe, Kogi State.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony,Senator Akume represented by his Chief of Staff,Simon Tyungu called on the people of the community, traditional leaders as well as youth organisations in the community to remain vigilant and be proactive in ensuring that the flood control measures remain effective and operational.

He noted that the 2022 floods, which ravaged various parts of the country, including Koton Karfe, resulted in untold human suffering and economic disruption.

“The repercussions of this disaster were felt far and wide, affecting not only the residents of this community but also disrupting vital routes that connect different regions of our country. The gridlock that ensued here 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. That incident would forever be remembered as one of the tragic moments when one of the most important roads linking Northern and Southern parts of the country got submerged by floodwaters.

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, GCFR. It is one of the several markers signifying that we are moving into a new era of resilience and progress for our nation.

Earlier, the Managing Director, National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), Mallam Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa in his address said the project, representing an investment of about 420 million Naira, 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 meters, comprising various components. We have integrated a line stretching 499.5 meters, complemented by an earth drain of 125.5 meters. Intersecting these drains are 4 double cell culverts, strategically placed to facilitate water flow. To enhance accessibility within the vicinity, we have incorporated 3 pedestrian bridges for safer passage of residents and commuters.

“Additionally, to manage surface runoff efficiently, inlet block line drains totaling 161 meters have been installed along the drainage route, with a stone-pitched area of 550 meters to avoid erosion and ensure longevity and stability in the face of harsh weather conditions,”.