By George George Idowu
The Federal Government has commissioned the Patigi Erosion and Flood Control Project in Patigi Town, Kwara State, in the fight against environmental challenges in the region.
The project was inaugurated by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, who was represented by the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim.
In a statement released by the Director of Information & Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, on Friday, Sen. Akume lauded the project as a crucial step towards enhancing the lives of Patigi residents and mitigating the long-standing issues of erosion and flooding.
He said: “This Erosion and Flood Control Dyke provides a lasting solution to a persistent problem.
“The well-designed drainage system not only directs water flow efficiently into the river but also lays the groundwork for improved town planning and flood prevention. The project’s benefits extend to safeguarding critical infrastructure, such as healthcare facilities, ensuring they remain operational during extreme weather events, and protecting homes and businesses, thus offering peace of mind to the community,” he noted.
Abubakar Yelwa, the Managing Director of the National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), praised the collaborative efforts of the Patigi community in addressing the devastating effects of floods and erosion, particularly around the General Hospital.
He detailed the project’s scope, which includes a 0.75-kilometre erosion control dyke and 0.325 kilometres of drainage designed to direct runoff into the river, thereby preserving the surrounding land.
Similarly, Governor Abdulrasaq Abdulrahman of Kwara State, represented by the State Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Buge, expressed gratitude for the federal intervention and urged the community to actively maintain the new infrastructure.
On the part of His Royal Highness, Etsu Patigi, Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Bologi II, he also commended the government and N-HYPPADEC for their efforts, encouraging the community to take responsibility for the upkeep of the project while expressing hope for further developments in the area.