Bauchi Government Warns Against Building on Waterways

The Bauchi State Government has issued a warning to residents against constructing buildings on waterways and obstructing the flow of excess water, which can lead to flooding. This caution was articulated by the Commissioner of Housing and Environment, Rt. Hon. Danlami Ahmed Kawule, during a one-day stakeholders’ engagement focused on flood preparedness and response planned for 2026.

The event was organized by the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project in Bauchi, following a flood alert from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency. Kawule urged residents to avoid building on waterways and discarding waste in drainage systems, as these actions hinder water flow and increase flooding risks.

The meeting aimed to educate community leaders, including religious and traditional rulers, on protective measures ahead of the peak rainy season in August. Kawule warned that violators of environmental regulations would face legal sanctions, stating that agencies are in place to ensure compliance.