…stakeholders caution residents on blocking water Channels
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
In an address to the public, the Director General of the Nasarawa State Emergency Management Agency (NASEMA), ZZ Alumaga, issued a stark warning about the looming threat of disasters in the region.
Speaking at a crucial stakeholders meeting convened at the Planning House on Shandam Road in Lafia on Friday, Alumaga stressed the urgent need for comprehensive awareness campaigns to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.
Highlighting the current tumultuous weather patterns, Alumaga urged citizens to exercise caution and refrain from activities that could exacerbate potential crises. “The rain this year has already signaled the likelihood of serious disasters,” Alumaga cautioned.
“Effective sensitization efforts are essential to minimize damages,” he emphasized, underlining the critical role of community engagement in disaster preparedness.
He further stated that reports from the field corroborate the gravity of the situation, particularly in Kean, where it was reported that over a thousand houses have already been affected by adverse weather conditions.
Alumaga, emphasized the importance of community sensitization as the rainy season approaches. Alumaga stressed the need for proactive measures to mitigate potential risks associated with heavy rainfall.
He urged communities to take precautions such as relocating vulnerable individuals, particularly infants and the elderly, to safer areas to avoid potential hazards.
Alumaga underscored that early preparation and awareness are vital in safeguarding lives and property during the rainy season. By sensitizing communities, he hopes to empower individuals to make informed decisions and take necessary actions to protect themselves and their families from potential dangers posed by inclement weather conditions.
Through collaborative efforts and timely interventions, Alumaga aims to minimize the impact of the rainy season and ensure the safety and well-being of all community members.
Representing the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer S.N. Manjiche, who serves as the Assistant General Manager of Administration and Supplies, the Nasarawa State Urban Development Board voiced grave concerns over the persistent challenges posed by illegal constructions in the region.
Addressing the issue head-on, the Board underscored the alarming trend of residents flouting regulations and opting for unauthorized building sites, thus undermining the overall urban planning and design of Nasarawa State.
“It is regrettable that many residents display a stubborn disregard for adherence to proper building protocols,” remarked the Board representative, shedding light on the root cause of the problem.
“The prevalence of structures erected on illegal positions not only violates established regulations but also disrupts the harmonious development of the state.”
Manjiche said the Nasarawa State Urban Development Board recounted numerous instances where it was compelled to take decisive action against erring parties by demolishing buildings constructed in violation of designated waterways.
He added that efforts to address this pervasive issue are underway, with the Nasarawa State Urban Development Board actively engaging in enforcement measures to curb the proliferation of illegal constructions. However, the Board emphasizes that lasting solutions require broader community awareness and cooperation.
Representatives from various government agencies echoed Alumaga’s concerns, collectively urging residents to refrain from obstructing water channels and building in flood-prone areas.
The consensus among stakeholders, including delegates from the Nigeria Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Fire Service, and Ministry of Agriculture, underscores the gravity of the situation.
“The people must be sensitized not only in urban areas but also in rural communities,” emphasized a representative from the police, echoing the sentiment shared by counterparts from agriculture, FRSC, and the Fire Service.
Sun reports that as Nasarawa braces itself for the challenges posed by unpredictable weather patterns, authorities are ramping up efforts to educate and empower citizens to take proactive measures.