ABUJA, Nigeria — Northern senators have called on the Federal Government and the Niger State Government to develop a permanent solution to the recurring flooding in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
The lawmakers made the call following concerns over the repeated destruction caused by flooding in communities across the area, with residents facing displacement, damage to homes and farmlands, and disruption of economic activities.
The senators said the recurring nature of the disaster required a comprehensive approach rather than temporary relief measures whenever flooding occurs.
They urged the Federal Government to work closely with the Niger State Government and other relevant agencies to develop a long-term flood management strategy for Shiroro and other vulnerable communities in the state.
The lawmakers stressed the need for a comprehensive master plan capable of addressing the root causes of flooding and reducing the risks faced by residents during the rainy season.
According to them, the situation requires coordinated intervention involving infrastructure development, improved drainage systems, proper water management and effective early-warning mechanisms.
The senators also called for stronger collaboration among government agencies responsible for disaster management, environmental protection, water resources and infrastructure to ensure that interventions are properly coordinated and sustained.
They expressed concern that repeated flooding had continued to undermine the livelihoods of residents, particularly farmers whose crops and farmlands are vulnerable to excessive water.
The lawmakers noted that beyond the immediate destruction of property, persistent flooding could worsen food insecurity, increase poverty and force affected communities to depend heavily on government relief.
They therefore urged authorities to move beyond emergency responses and focus on preventive measures that would protect communities and reduce the financial burden associated with repeated disaster relief operations.
The senators also appealed to the Niger State Government to strengthen its collaboration with affected communities and provide accurate information on flood risks, evacuation plans and other safety measures.
They said residents should be adequately informed and prepared ahead of periods of heavy rainfall to minimise casualties and property losses.
The call comes amid growing concerns over the impact of flooding on communities across Nigeria, where inadequate drainage, changing weather patterns, poor environmental management and rising water levels have contributed to recurring disasters in several states.
The lawmakers maintained that Shiroro required urgent and sustained government attention because of its vulnerability to flooding and the significant impact of the disaster on residents.
They called for the proposed master plan to include clear timelines, funding arrangements and responsibilities for relevant government institutions to ensure that the initiative does not remain on paper.
The senators further urged the Federal Government to consider the construction and rehabilitation of flood-control infrastructure where necessary, alongside environmental measures designed to reduce the severity of flooding.
They stressed that a permanent solution would not only protect lives and property but also safeguard agricultural activities and improve the economic stability of communities affected by the disaster.
The lawmakers said they would continue to push for government intervention and appropriate legislative action to ensure that the recurring flooding in Shiroro is addressed through sustainable measures rather than short-term responses.
