2024 FLOOD SEASON: Kogi Takes Delivery of 4 Motorized Boats From N-HYPPADEC For Search And Rescue

Kogi State has heightened its preparedness for the 2024 flood season with the acquisition of four motorized fiberglass boats donated by the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC). The boats, intended for search and rescue operations, were formally received on behalf of the Kogi State Government by the Commissioner for Transportation, Atuluku Victor Levi, representing Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.

The handover took place at N-HYPPADEC headquarters in Minna, Niger State, during a commissioning ceremony, which also saw attendance by representatives from other states impacted by hydroelectric power operations. Kogi State, as one of the ten HYPPADEC member states, stands to benefit significantly from the deployment of these boats as part of its flood mitigation efforts.

Speaking during the event, Yakubu Garba, Deputy Governor of Niger State, extended a warm welcome to the Kogi delegation, commending the state’s proactive approach to disaster preparedness. He acknowledged the deep ties between Niger and Kogi, lauding the leadership of Governor Ododo in addressing flood-related challenges.

Kogipedia recalls that Governor Ododo chaired the NEC Ad Hoc Committee on Nature-Induced Disasters which designed a national roadmap for Mitigation, Adaptation, Preparedness and Response (MAPR) to Flood, Erosion, Drought and Desertification for the nation. The Committee’s work resulted in the release of N3bn to each state and the FCT by the federal government for the 2024 flood season.

The four fiberglass boats are equipped to handle swift water search and rescue missions and will be used to support Kogi State’s ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property during the flood season. With arrangements already in place for the safe transportation of the boats to Kogi, the state is intensifying its flood management measures.

Kogi State, which has historically been one of the hardest-hit by seasonal floods due to its location at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers, has maintained a high level of vigilance over the emerging flood situation. The state government, in collaboration with N-HYPPADEC, has implemented several proactive measures, including public sensitization campaigns, early warnings to riverine communities, and the establishment of evacuation protocols.

Governor Ododo’s administration remains committed to protecting the lives and livelihoods of Kogi residents. The donation of these boats is expected to bolster the state’s capacity to respond swiftly to emergencies and mitigate the impact of floods on vulnerable communities.

As Kogi braces for what is predicted to be a challenging flood season, the delivery of the boats marks another significant step in strengthening the state’s resilience to natural disasters.