In a bid to tackle the perennial issue of flooding, the National-Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has successfully completed the construction of a 625-metre canal in Koton Karfe, Kogi State, at a cost of N420 million.
The inauguration ceremony, presided over by George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), underscored the significance of community involvement in maintaining the newly constructed infrastructure. Akume, represented by his Chief of Staff, Simon Tyungu, hailed the project as a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to alleviating the hardships faced by the populace.
“The Koton Karfe Flood Control Project symbolizes our commitment to safeguarding communities against the ravages of floods,” remarked Akume. “By replicating such initiatives in other flood-prone areas, we can envisage a future where the threat of devastating floods no longer hangs over our heads.”
Dr. Saidu Salihu, the traditional ruler of Koton Karfe, expressed gratitude to both the federal government and N-HYPPADEC for the timely intervention, which has relieved his subjects from the fear of impending floods. He assured that the community would actively participate in preserving the canal.
However, Dr. Salihu also appealed for the construction of a similar canal in the northern part of the community to address potential flood risks in that area. “Neglecting the northern region poses a threat to the effectiveness of the canal in the southern part of our community. We implore authorities to consider this impending danger,” he emphasized.
