Kwara govt urges residents to relocate to safer locations over flooding

The Kwara State Government, on Tuesday, urged residents to support ongoing efforts to protect lives and property as the weather forecast indicates the possibility of heavy rainfall and flooding in parts of the State.

Nafisat Musa Buge, Commissioner for Environment, said the warning became necessary following flood alerts issued by relevant agencies, including NIMET, NIHSA and the Federal Ministry of Environment, which identified Kwara among the states at risk of flooding.

She noted that the Government had intensified preventive measures, including desilting drainage channels and strengthening collaboration with the Kwara State Emergency Management Agency and Climate/Ecology Units across the 16 Local Government Areas.

The Commissioner, however, stressed that the government’s efforts can only succeed with the support and cooperation of residents and urged citizens to avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drainage channels.

She also enjoined citizens to refrain from activities that obstruct waterways and comply with directives aimed at reducing flood risks.

Residents in flood-prone communities, particularly in Jebba, Bode-Saadu, Kosubosu, Kaiama, Lafiagi and Patigi, were advised to relocate to safer locations where necessary and remain vigilant throughout the rainy season.

She also appealed to traditional and community leaders to spread flood safety messages in local languages to ensure wider awareness and compliance.

“Protecting lives and property is a shared responsibility. We therefore call on all residents to support the Government’s interventions and take necessary precautions to reduce the impact of flooding,” she emphasised.