Jigawa Faces Flood Threats Despite N2.57bn Ecological Fund

Jigawa State is confronting worsening flood threats despite receiving N2.57 billion from the ecological fund, aimed at addressing environmental challenges. The fund's disbursement included allocations of N143.40 million in January, N178.03 million in February, and N283.86 million in September, among others.

The Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), led by Executive Secretary Hannafi Yakubu Fagam, has flagged imminent flood risks across various local government areas, including Guri, Kiri, and Hadejia. A statement from SEMA highlighted that flooding will intensify from July to November, urging residents to clear drainage systems and avoid building in flood-prone areas.

The agency also advised households to stock essential supplies and prepare evacuation plans. Heavy rainfall has already submerged parts of Jalingo, displacing residents.

The Ministry of Water Resources has warned that at least 33 states are at risk of flooding this year, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the ecological fund in mitigating these recurrent threats.