CORBON Calls for Action on Floodplain Mismanagement Leading to Flooding

The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria has highlighted floodplain mismanagement as a key factor leading to flooding in the country. Chairman Dr. Samson Opaluwah urged the government and public to act quickly to transform rivers into economic resources. He emphasized stricter planning and the necessity of annual flood-prevention programs while expressing condolences to the victims of recent floods.

The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) has sounded an alarm, urging immediate actions to transform the country’s rivers from hazards into valuable economic resources, attributing current flooding issues to mismanagement of floodplains. Dr. Samson Opaluwah, the council’s chairman, raised these concerns during a recent interview, underscoring the dire consequences of seasonal floods, especially affecting vulnerable riverine communities.

In light of the tragic recent flooding in Mokwa, Niger State, which claimed over 150 lives, Opaluwah expressed condolences to the families impacted by the disaster. He 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 called on both government bodies and citizens to rally in support of those suffering from flooding, emphasizing the importance of proactive preparedness. “Every nation prepares for the climatic situation that they find themselves in on an ongoing basis,” he stated. He pointed out that Nigeria, with its predictable rainy and harmattan seasons, should have annual flood-prevention programs in place.

Dr. Opaluwah highlighted the ongoing global impact of climate change, urging the Ministry of Environment and related agencies to act decisively. “These organs should perform their roles in society to avoid these unpleasant occurrences. Our country has the professionals and the capacity to be proactive,” he insisted. He noted that while emergency management systems have been established, they must be properly funded and staffed to be effective.

Opaluwah lamented the underutilization of Nigeria’s major rivers—the Niger and Benue—suggesting that the country should capitalize on these natural resources. He argued that instead of being burdens, the rivers should be seen as prime opportunities for economic development through enhanced maritime activities, tourism, and manufacturing.

He criticized current construction practices, emphasizing the dangers of building on floodplains. “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,” he noted.

He urged stricter enforcement of urban planning regulations to incorporate flood mitigation strategies into city designs. The responsibility, he asserts, lies with town planning authorities to continuously integrate these considerations into urban development plans.

Opaluwah also pointed to the role of the Ecological Fund Office in addressing these flooding crises, pleading with state governments to take action. He assured authorities that CORBON stands ready to support any government willing to adopt practical solutions. “Buildings in the floodplains are either protected or they should be removed. That is the permanent solution for these perennial incidents,” he concluded, emphasizing the need for effective strategies to combat flooding.

In summary, CORBON is advocating for immediate action to address the mismanagement of floodplains in Nigeria, urging both the government and the public to collaborate in mitigating flooding disasters. Dr. Samson Opaluwah highlighted the need for Nigeria to utilize its major rivers as economic assets rather than remaining burdens. Stricter enforcement of urban planning regulations and urgent government responses are deemed essential for a sustainable future.

Original Source: punchng.com