The Senate has asked the Federal government to direct the immediate dredging of Rivers Niger and Benue, as part of preventive measures against flooding, and facilitate its inclusion into the 2025 budget.
The Upper legislative chamber adopted the resolution following a motion moved by Senator Amos Yohanna on the urgent need for intervention in the Humanitarian crisis caused by flooding in Adamawa North Senatorial District.
The Senate had, at an emergency session, equally resolved to facilitate the inclusion of the dredging of River Benue, River Niger, and other river projects in the 2024 Appropriation Bill. The plan was expected to help combat recurring flooding and its effects around the country.
In his lead debate on Tuesday, Senator Yohanna noted that there was massive flooding that caused catastrophic destruction in the five local government areas of Adamawa North Senatorial District, namely; Madagali, Maiha, Michika, Mubi North and Mubi South, which destroyed hundreds of houses and farmlands.
The lawmakers further resolved to direct the National Emergency Management Agency to urgently reach out to the affected communities and provide relief materials to the victims.