Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has kicked off a flood and gully erosion control project in Rigasa. He also handed out cheques worth about N2 billion to 1,000 individuals whose homes will be affected.
The project runs from Rigasa to Tudun Wada wards in Igabi and Kaduna South local governments. It aims to tackle the ongoing flooding in the area, which has caused loss of lives and property over the past 40 years.
At the ceremony, Governor Sani said the project will cost over N34 billion. He added that this is the first project of its kind in all of northern Nigeria.
"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 N2 billion today to about 1,000 people whose houses will be affected by the project," he said.
The governor also mentioned that he has already paid over N5 billion in compensation. His government does not support demolishing properties without proper compensation.
"Before constructing any road or starting any project, we do pay compensation even before starting the project. We don’t want to destroy people’s livelihoods while trying to develop the area," he explained.
He stressed that development is not just 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 suffered from the effects of flooding and gully erosion. Families have watched their homes disappear under rising waters and crumbling land.
"Important infrastructure has been damaged, farmlands have been ruined. Livelihoods have been disrupted and dreams have been put on hold. This intervention is not only timely; it is transformative.
"Once finished, these flood and gully erosion control structures will greatly lower the risk of flooding and land degradation. They will protect homes and public infrastructure, preserve economic assets, restore environmental stability and provide better security for communities that have lived under the threat of disaster for too long," he added.
Earlier, the Commissioner of Environment and Natural Resources, Abubakar Buba, praised the governor for investing in vulnerable communities across Kaduna State. He said this makes them greener, safer, and more resilient.
He noted that the Rigasa/Tudun Wada project covers a total of 17.8 km. He said when completed, it will "improve environmental conditions and enhance the socio-economic well-being of over 500 residents within the corridor, putting the state among the leading sub-national governments in Nigeria for environmental sustainability."
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