The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria identifies floodplain mismanagement as the main cause of flooding in the country. Chairman Dr. Samson Opaluwah calls for urgent reforms to convert rivers into economic assets and emphasizes the need for preventive measures and responsible urban planning to alleviate the flooding crisis. He highlights the tragic loss of life due to recent floods and advocates for community support for victims.
The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) has drawn serious attention to a pressing issue—floodplain mismanagement—and called for immediate actions to transform Nigeria’s rivers. This transformation could shift these water bodies from being mere disaster sources to significant economic resources. The council’s chairman, Dr. Samson Opaluwah, highlighted the alarming consequences of seasonal flooding, particularly affecting riverine communities, and expressed condolences to those impacted, including the recent tragic flood in Mokwa, Niger State, which claimed over 150 lives.
In a recent interview, Opaluwah stated, “Floodplains’ mismanagement is responsible for flooding. We pray that God will comfort the families of the bereaved and provide succor and replacement for those who have lost essential items, real estate, and livelihoods.” He stressed the necessity for both governmental and community support for those suffering due to these floods, underlining an urgent need for a collective response to this crisis.
He pointed out, “Every nation prepares for the climatic situation that they find themselves in on an ongoing basis.” Opaluwah pointed to Nigeria’s distinct rainy and harmattan seasons, arguing that these should encourage annual flood-prevention initiatives from federal, state, and local governments. Moreover, he called upon the Ministry of Environment and climate change agencies to step up their efforts given the escalating impact of climate change.
While acknowledging the government’s emergency management systems, he warned that relying solely on reactive measures is inadequate. “They have to be supported, funded, and appropriately manned for them to be responsive. We should, however, focus on prevention,” he added, pushing for a more proactive approach to flood management.
Opaluwah also raised concerns about Nigeria’s significant natural resources—its two major rivers, the Niger and Benue—which he feels are drastically underutilized. “We are not tapping the resources or adequately using these large bodies of water, and that is why they have continued to be burdens to us rather than an advantage,” he cautioned, advocating for a development blueprint around maritime activities, tourism, and manufacturing leveraging these rivers.
Moreover, CORBON is particularly troubled by the rampant construction along floodplains. Opaluwah commented, “They have built houses where they are not supposed to build, and whenever there is rainfall, the body of water will claim where it is supposed to flow through or remove anything in its path.” This highlights a need for stricter enforcement from town planning authorities, who have a crucial role in integrating flood mitigation strategies into urban planning.
He called on state governments to act decisively, reaffirming that CORBON stands prepared to assist any government willing to implement practical solutions. “Buildings in the floodplains are either protected or they should be removed. That is the permanent solution for these perennial incidents,” he said. The council is eager to support any governmental initiative aimed at addressing these urgent challenges effectively.
In summary, the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria asserts that floodplain mismanagement is a crucial factor contributing to Nigeria’s flooding crises. Emphasizing the need for preventive measures and strategic utilization of the nation’s rivers, the council urges both government action and community support. With tragedy striking many, it is paramount the country focuses on sustainable solutions to protect vulnerable communities and harness its natural resources effectively.
Original Source: punchng.com
