NEDC concerned over frequent bridge collapses in North-East

The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has raised the alarm over the increasing frequency of bridge collapses in the North East. 

Citing the numerous bridges that recently collapsed in the region, the commission who described the situation as endemic, said the commission will work round the clock to collaborate with the relevant authorities to repair the bridges.

The commission who were on Friday in Taraba state on oversight functions, were observed to have visited the washed-away bridge in Namnai village of Gassol local government council.

Speaking to journalists, the managing director of the commission, Mohammed Alkali Goni, attributed the trend to the adverse effects of climate change. 

Highlighting that the North East is bearing the brunt of climate change, he assured the public that the commission is committed to working with state governments to find long-term solutions to the recurring problem of bridge collapses in the region.

“Bridge collapses in the North East have become endemic. Just two weeks ago, I was in Adamawa State for a similar issue. Bauchi, Gombe, and now Taraba have all faced the same problem,” he stated 

While emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to address the issue, the need for all hands to be on deck to prevent future occurrences, he believed, has become necessary.

“We must sit down and look at the problem holistically to provide durable solutions for the future. This will be a collaborative effort with the state governments to bring relief to our people.”

Two bridges located in Gassol and Bali local to councils of the state were recently washed away by erosions following heavy rainfall that lasted for several hours.