NIMASA lauds FG’s commitment to dredge River Benue to reduce flooding

Governing Board of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) on Thursday, commended the Federal Government’s commitment to dredge River Benue to reduce flooding.

Maj.-Gen Jonathan Garba, (Rtd) Chairman, Governing Board of NIMASA, said that the response from government, individuals and organisations to the Benue flood was impressive.

According to a statement by the Media Assistant to the chairman, Adakole Ejegbudu, the recent flooding in Benue and its environs brought untold hardship to thousands of persons.

“The flood destroyed property, infrastructure and sources of livelihood of citizens in the process.

“We are not only reminded of the potency of nature’s fury but also the strength of the Nigerian spirit exemplified by the fortitude of the victims and the charity of volunteers and donors.

“Who followed the lead of the President and Commander In Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari in extending a helping hand.

“The President’s directive to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide emergency aid to the victims brought succour and prevented the situation from deteriorating even further,” he said.

Garba pointed out that the visit of the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo to the area showed the Presidency’s commitment to the well being of ordinary Nigerians.

“In keeping with his loyalty and exemplary leadership demonstrated by the vice president, the nation owes him a debt of gratitude.

“The vice president brought glad tidings to Makurdi wrapped in his declaration that the government’s approach would be finding lasting solutions, through the construction of proper drainage and dredging of the Benue River.”

Garba said that the River which in times past was very viable for transporting people and goods from Buruku in Benue and Numan in Adamawa has become filled with silt and other materials.

He said that the proposed dredging of the river would reduce the risk of flood hence boosting the transportation and economy activities in the region.

“The proposed dredging will reduced risk of flooding, greater federal presence in the state and boost transportation and economic activities on the Benue River.”