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Zulum Activates Machinery To Prevent Flood Disaster In Borno

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During the inspection of one of the dams

Prof. Babagana Zulum, Governor of Borno State, has directed the immediate activation of all relevant government resources and machinery in anticipation of any possible water overflow caused by this year’s unprecedented high volume of rainfall, as well as to avert any flood disaster in Maiduguri, its environs, and other parts of the state.

Abdurrahman Bundi, the governor’s Senior Special Assistant on New Media, issued a statement over the weekend announcing the directive.

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The directive was said to be necessary due to growing concerns about the Alau Dam’s potential overflow, which recharges Maiduguri’s water treatment plants for domestic use and irrigation.

According to the statement, the governor expressed concern that the high volume of rain in certain parts of the state could lead to flooding.

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As a result, he directed all relevant government agencies and local councils to carry out their responsibilities by continuously assessing vulnerable areas, implementing preventive measures, and conducting public awareness campaigns throughout their respective communities.

Zulum also advised the public to be aware of potential risks, to be vigilant, and to follow all directives from government agencies and constituted authorities regarding emergency response protocols.

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He directed that all local government councils mobilise all relevant officials and units to conduct site assessments in at-risk neighbourhoods in collaboration with relevant Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Community-Based Organisations (CBOs), community and religious leaders, and other opinion leaders and institutions.

He stated that the government has identified high-risk areas prone to flooding and is implementing solutions such as temporary barriers and emergency evacuation routes.

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Zulum stated, “We cannot afford to be complacent in the face of this impending challenge,” as quoted. “It is critical that we mobilise all of our resources, engage all stakeholders across communities, and implement effective measures to protect our people.

“We have a standing committee to mitigate flooding, which has previously evacuated and resulted in the construction of additional drainage systems throughout the state. I have ordered additional measures to prevent an emergency health epidemic. In addition, we formed the Great Green Wall Agency.

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“We also desilted, dredged, and built concrete retaining walls around the River Ngada to prevent erosion, which could lead to flooding in Maiduguri and its surroundings.

“As part of the long-term measure, we intend to build structures to harvest water for irrigation and begin soil conservation, including river bank reinforcement and desilting of the river Ngada to allow free passage of water.”

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Meanwhile, Alhaji Bukar Tijani, Secretary to the Borno State Government, is coordinating flood emergency response efforts to ensure that the Governor’s directives are fully implemented and that all residents are safe.

The SSG has visited Alau Dam, Gongulong, Gwange, Farm Centre, 505 Housing Estate, and several other locations in the metropolis and surrounding areas to assess the situation and provide guidance to prevent collosal damage from potential flooding.

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Many Nigerian states, including in the North-east, have experienced flood disasters this year, which have been attributed to the unprecedented amount of rainfall this season.

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