The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, commissioned a N420 million naira flood control project on Thursday through the National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) in Koton-Karfi, Kogi State.
Senator Akume also called on all community and traditional leaders, as well as youth organisations, in the community to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring that the flood control measures remain effective and operational.
The SGF, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Simon Tyungu, 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 will forever be remembered as one of the tragic moments when one of the most important roads linking the northern and southern parts of the country got submerged by floodwaters.
According to him, it was in 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 acknowledgement 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 spectre 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 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, said in his address that 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 metres, comprising various components. We have integrated a line stretching 499.5 metres, complemented by an earth drain of 125.5 metres. 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 totalling 161 metres have been installed along the drainage route, with a stone-pitched area of 550 metres to avoid erosion and ensure longevity and stability in the face of harsh weather conditions.”
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