Kwara State Government Urges Residents to Heed Flood Alerts
The Kwara State Government has called on residents to take the ongoing flood alerts and precautionary measures seriously. The state Commissioner for Communication, Bola Olukoju, emphasized the importance of adhering to flood prevention advice in a statement released on Tuesday.
Olukoju highlighted that various government agencies have been actively involved in public enlightenment campaigns about flooding risks and mitigation strategies. These initiatives, which include broadcasts on radio stations and outreach through community leaders, are part of the government’s broader effort to manage flood risks.
“The government has undertaken significant measures, such as desilting numerous drainages and water passages within the metropolis. We also discourage practices that could exacerbate the effects of the climate crisis and rising water levels,” Olukoju said.
In riverine communities like Patigi and Edu, local royal fathers are working to encourage residents to relocate to designated safer areas. The state government is also advocating for the dredging of the River Niger as a long-term solution to flooding in the region.
The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) has identified Patigi, Edu, Moro, Kaiama, and Ilorin East as flood-prone areas. NIMET has also predicted continuous heavy rains and thunderstorms for Kwara and other states, beginning Tuesday.
“We appeal to our residents to heed these advisories and take necessary precautions,” Olukoju added.
