Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has flagged off a N34 billion flood and gully erosion control project, announcing the payment of about N2 billion in compensation to nearly 1,000 residents whose properties will be affected by the intervention.
The project, which covers Rigasa in Igabi Local Government Area and Tudun Wada in Kaduna South Local Government Area, is designed to tackle decades of flooding and gully erosion that have claimed lives, destroyed homes and damaged infrastructure in the affected communities.
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Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony in Rigasa, Sani said the compensation was paid before the commencement of the project in line with his administration’s commitment to protect the livelihoods of affected residents.
He said the government would continue to compensate property owners before demolishing structures for public projects, adding that more than N5 billion had been paid in compensation for various development projects since he assumed office.
The governor described the initiative as the largest flood and gully erosion control project of its kind in Northern Nigeria, noting that it would significantly reduce flooding, curb land degradation and protect homes, public infrastructure and economic assets.
According to him, the project will also restore environmental stability and provide lasting relief to communities that have endured recurring floods and erosion for more than 40 years.
Sani said development should not be limited to physical infrastructure but must also safeguard lives, livelihoods and the environment.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Abubakar Buba, said the 17.8-kilometre Rigasa-Tudun Wada erosion control project would improve environmental conditions and enhance the socio-economic well-being of residents in the affected areas.
He added that the intervention would strengthen Kaduna State’s efforts toward environmental sustainability and resilience against climate-related disasters.
