Nasarawa State Government to Relocate Residents from Flood-Prone Areas

The Nasarawa State Government intends to enforce the relocation of residents from areas susceptible to flooding. This action is being taken to safeguard lives and property as the 2026 rainy season begins.

Princess Margaret Elayo, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, announced this on Saturday in Lafia, following the state's April sanitation exercise. She stated that the government has pinpointed communities in Doma, Nasarawa, Toto, Awe, and Lafia Local Government Areas that are frequently impacted by floods from the River Benue and its associated waterways.

This proactive step comes in light of forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and a history of devastating floods. Elayo explained that the government is collaborating with Local Government Area Chairmen and traditional rulers to guide affected individuals to safer locations.

"They should retrieve their belongings and leave their homes temporarily so that when flooding occurs, lives will not be lost," Elayo urged.

She also appealed to the public to cease dumping waste in drainage systems and to refrain from constructing buildings on natural water channels, as these actions contribute to flooding.

The commissioner pledged to intensify public awareness campaigns on the critical importance of clearing water channels to mitigate flood risks.

"We have involved traditional and religious leaders, along with community heads, and we are funding sensitisation programs through the mass media to educate the public on the dangers of flooding and preventive measures," she stated.

Regarding the April sanitation exercise, Elayo expressed satisfaction with the public's adherence to regulations, calling for continued cooperation to prevent disease outbreaks.

"Maintaining a clean environment is crucial for preventing potential disease outbreaks and ensuring improved health for the populace," she remarked.

Separately, Abubakar Mohammed, the Chief Prosecuting Officer for the ministry, reported that 106 individuals were apprehended across the state for contravening sanitation laws.

Mohammed indicated that these offenders were detained for conducting commercial activities during the designated sanitation period.

He confirmed that the defaulters were processed through various mobile courts due to their violation of Section 9 (2) of the State Environmental Sanitation Law.