Uba Sani launches N34bn erosion control project in Rigasa

Uba Sani of Kaduna State has launched a N34 billion flood and gully erosion control project in Rigasa and paid N2 billion compensation to 1,000 affected residents.

The project spans Rigasa and Tudun Wada wards in Igabi and Kaduna South local government areas.

It is designed to address decades of flooding and gully erosion that claimed lives and destroyed property across affected communities.

At the launch of the project in Kaduna on Friday, the governor described it as “the largest flood and erosion control intervention in Northern Nigeria.

“The project will cost over N34 billion and significantly reduce flooding and environmental degradation in affected communities.”

The governor added that his administration paid N2 billion compensation before commencing the project to ensure fairness to affected property owners.

He said “we promised not to demolish any property without paying adequate compensation.

“About 1,000 residents received compensation for structures affected by the project.”

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to protecting the interests and livelihoods of citizens.

According to him, the state government has paid over N5 billion compensation for various infrastructure projects.

He said the government prioritised compensation before executing projects to prevent avoidable hardship.

“Development is not only about infrastructure but also about protecting communities, restoring dignity and securing the future of our people,” he said.

Sani noted that Rigasa and Tudun Wada residents had endured flooding and erosion for more than 40 years.

He said the project would protect homes, public infrastructure, economic assets and farmlands from recurring disasters.

The governor added that the intervention would restore environmental stability and improve community safety.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Alhaji Abubakar Buba, commended the governor for investing in vulnerable communities.

Buba said the 17.8 kilometre intervention would improve environmental conditions and enhance residents’ socio-economic well-being.

He added that the project would strengthen Kaduna State’s position in environmental sustainability among Nigeria’s sub-national governments.