Senate to address perennial flooding with dredging of River, Dam construction

Thelma Osatohanmwen


The Nigerian Senate has resolved to take proactive measures to combat the recurring issue of flooding in the country with focus on facilitating the inclusion of river dredging projects, particularly the dredging of River Benue, in the 2024 Appropriation Bill.

NEWSTODAYNG gathered that the decision was made on Monday as a result of the severe and multi-dimensional consequences of perennial flooding that have plagued various regions of Nigeria.

Additionally, the Lawmakers have urged President Bola Tinubu to oversee the construction of dams, including the proposed Dasin Hausa Dam in Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State.

The aim of these dam projects is to mitigate the potential risk of excessive flooding, particularly from the Lagdo Dam in neighboring Cameroon, which can cause significant challenges in Nigerian regions.

Recognizing the urgent need for relief and support, the Senate has also called upon the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide aid to flood victims and conduct awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of crossing rivers before or after heavy rainfall.

These resolutions were reached against the backdrop of recurring flooding in Nigeria, exacerbated by the undredged River Benue.


According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the year 2022 alone witnessed the displacement of over 2.41 million people and recorded over 600 fatalities, with vast tracts of farmland across affected states inundated by floodwaters.

The Senate has subsequently entered into an executive session, reflecting their commitment to addressing this critical issue and mitigating the devastating effects of flooding on the Nigerian population.