The Jigawa State Government has intensified efforts to mitigate flood risks and strengthen climate resilience with the distribution of essential working equipment to community groups engaged in waterway maintenance across the state.
Governor Malam Umar Namadi made this known during the official launch of the intervention in Auyo Local Government Area, where he reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting vulnerable communities from flooding and environmental degradation.
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The initiative, which targets fifteen Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), focuses on clearing invasive aquatic weeds and desilting blocked canals—key factors contributing to flooding in riverine areas. According to the governor, the programme underscores the critical role local communities play in safeguarding waterways and sustaining livelihoods.
He noted that many communities situated along rivers and wetlands face persistent challenges caused by clogged channels and silted waterways, which often result in the destruction of farmlands and disruption of economic activities.
“Our rivers and wetlands are not only environmental assets but also vital sources of livelihood for thousands of people. Protecting them is a shared responsibility,” Namadi stated.
The governor explained that the intervention aligns with the state’s broader agenda to promote environmental sustainability, enhance climate adaptation, and encourage grassroots participation in development initiatives.
As part of efforts to boost operational capacity, the state has procured two additional amphibious excavators under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project. This brings the total number of such machines owned by the state to four, complemented by two others provided by the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority.
Governor Namadi revealed that over 180 kilometres of waterways have already been cleared across the state, adding that the newly acquired equipment would accelerate ongoing efforts and further reduce flood risks in vulnerable communities.
In addition to heavy machinery, the government distributed various tools to the beneficiary organizations, including thousands of empty sacks, canoes, sickles, cutlasses, shovels, headpans, axes, boots, and rubber ropes. The materials are expected to enhance community-led canal clearance and environmental sanitation activities.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Malam Hamisu Gumel, said the governor commended the participating organizations for their dedication to environmental protection and urged them to ensure proper use and maintenance of the equipment.
He assured that the state government would continue to invest in initiatives that promote environmental conservation, afforestation, pollution control, and sustainable natural resource management.
The intervention marks another step in Jigawa’s proactive approach to addressing climate-related challenges, particularly flooding, which remains a recurring threat to agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.
Governor Namadi officially declared the distribution exercise open, expressing optimism that the initiative would yield lasting benefits for communities across the state.
