By Ali Rabiu Ali Jigawa
In a major effort to strengthen environmental protection and reduce the threat of flooding across vulnerable communities, the Governor of Jigawa State, Umar A. Namadi, has launched the distribution of river clearance and environmental management equipment to 15 community-based organizations operating along the Hadejia and Komadugu river corridors.
The initiative, implemented by the Jigawa State Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, covers communities stretching from Dabi in Ringim Local Government Area to the border regions between Jigawa and Yobe States.
It is aimed at empowering local residents to actively participate in river maintenance, environmental sanitation, and flood mitigation efforts.
Speaking during the official launch ceremony in Auyo, Governor Namadi emphasized the importance of collaboration between government institutions and local communities in safeguarding the environment and preventing annual flood disasters.
He explained that regular river dredging and the removal of invasive vegetation from waterways are essential for ensuring the free flow of water, supporting agriculture and livestock production, preserving aquatic ecosystems, and reducing the risk of devastating floods.
The governor noted that the project builds on the success of a similar intervention introduced in Ringim in 2024, which significantly improved water flow and reduced flooding in affected communities.
The equipment distributed to the beneficiary groups includes 25 boats, more than 10,000 sacks, 500 spades, 500 shovels, 200 axes, 1,000 cutlasses, 500 rakes, 300 hoes, 100 ploughs, and several other tools required for environmental sanitation and river-clearing activities.
Governor Namadi highlighted the strategic importance of the Hadejia and Komadugu rivers to the state’s economy, food production, and the livelihoods of thousands of residents. According to him, clearing weeds and other obstructions from waterways will enhance the productivity of the rivers while minimizing flood risks.
He commended the community organizations for their commitment and voluntary service, urging them to safeguard the equipment and utilize it effectively for the benefit of their communities.
The governor further disclosed that the Jigawa State Government, in partnership with the ACReSAL programme supported by the World Bank, recently acquired two additional amphibious excavators for river dredging operations.
He explained that the state previously owned two excavators, while another two were provided by the Hadejia-Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, bringing the total number of operational amphibious excavators to six.
According to the governor, these machines have already been used to dredge more than 180 kilometres of rivers and water channels across the state, contributing significantly to the reduction of flooding in communities along the Hadejia and Komadugu river basins.
Government Remains Committed to Environmental Sustainability
Governor Namadi reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to environmental sustainability and flood control as part of the government’s 12-point development agenda.
He stressed that meaningful progress in environmental management can only be achieved through collective responsibility and active community participation.
“One hand cannot lift a heavy load alone. Unity and cooperation remain the key to achieving lasting success in our environmental protection efforts,” the governor said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Nura Kazaure, said the annual distribution programme demonstrates the Jigawa State Government’s unwavering commitment to environmental conservation, community empowerment, and the preservation of natural resources for future generations.
He expressed concern over increasing pollution in rivers and waterways, warning that blocked water channels negatively affect fishing activities, agricultural productivity, family livelihoods, and overall environmental health.
The commissioner noted that the beneficiary community-based organizations play a crucial role in maintaining clean and accessible waterways. He urged traditional institutions, youth groups, local leaders, and all stakeholders to continue supporting environmental conservation initiatives.
According to him, the materials distributed represent more than just equipment; they are an investment in community development and a cleaner environment.
Dr. Nura also stated that the initiative aligns with Governor Namadi’s development agenda, particularly in the areas of agriculture, food security, environmental sustainability, and community participation.
He called on all beneficiary organizations to work closely with government agencies, traditional leaders, and local residents to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the programme.
The event attracted government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, representatives of beneficiary organizations, members of the media, and other stakeholders committed to environmental protection and flood prevention across Jigawa State.
