Kaduna State Governor Sani Initiates N34bn Erosion Control, N2bn Compensation Released

Kaduna State witnessed the commencement of a substantial N34 billion flood and gully erosion mitigation initiative on Friday, launched by Governor Uba Sani. During the event, the governor also confirmed that approximately N2 billion in compensation had been disbursed to over 1,000 residents whose properties are situated within the project's path. This extensive undertaking, spanning areas like Rigasa in Igabi Local Government and Tudun Wada in Kaduna South Local Government, aims to tackle persistent flooding and severe gully erosion. These environmental challenges have plagued the communities for more than forty years, resulting in loss of life, destruction of residences, and significant damage to public infrastructure.

While addressing attendees at the groundbreaking event held in Rigasa, Governor Sani reiterated his administration's commitment to prioritizing citizen welfare. He emphasized that proper compensation would always precede any demolition of property for state-funded projects. Sani stated, "This government has promised that we will not demolish anyone’s property until we have paid adequate compensation. That is why we paid compensation worth N2bn today to about 1,000 people whose houses will be affected by the project." He further assured, "As a government, we have promised that the common man will not be shortchanged in any manner."

The governor revealed that the entire project carries a price tag exceeding N34 billion, highlighting its significance as the most extensive and comprehensive flood and gully erosion control effort of its kind ever undertaken in Northern Nigeria. He also mentioned that his government has disbursed over N5 billion in compensation to property owners impacted by various state initiatives since he took office. "Before constructing any road or embarking on any project, we pay compensation even before starting the project," Sani affirmed. He added, "We don’t want to destroy people’s livelihoods in a bid to bring development to them."

Governor Sani underscored that genuine development encompasses more than just physical infrastructure, extending to safeguarding lives and securing livelihoods. He elaborated, saying, "Development is not merely about building structures; it is also about protecting communities, restoring dignity and securing the future of our people." "For many years, the people of Rigasa and Tudun Wada have borne the painful consequences of flooding and gully erosion," Sani lamented. He noted how "Families have watched homes disappear beneath advancing waters and collapsing landscapes." He further explained that "Critical infrastructure has been damaged, farmlands destroyed, livelihoods disrupted and dreams delayed." Concluding his remarks, the governor asserted, "This intervention is therefore not only timely; it is transformative."

Upon its completion, the project is expected to significantly mitigate flooding and land degradation, according to the governor. It will also shield residences, public facilities, and economic assets within the affected areas. He further indicated that this initiative would re-establish environmental equilibrium and offer enduring respite to residents who have endured the persistent danger of repeated floods.

Earlier in the proceedings, Abubakar Buba, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, praised Governor Sani for his foresight in making crucial investments dedicated to safeguarding vulnerable communities from environmental threats. Buba highlighted that the Rigasa-Tudun Wada erosion control project covers a distance of 17.8 kilometers and is poised to substantially enhance both environmental quality and the socio-economic welfare of inhabitants along its path. He concluded by stating that this intervention would also elevate Kaduna's standing as a frontrunner among Nigerian states in the realm of environmental sustainability.