Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa state has distribute acquatic weed removal and canal clearance as preventive measures against flooding to fifteen Community Based Organizations on riverine areas of Jigawa state who are mostly vulnerable to flooding and environmental degradation.

Speaking at the official launch of the intervention in Auyo Local Government Area of Jigawa state, Governor Namadi said the initiative reflects the state’s recognition of the important role local communities play in protecting waterways, preserving livelihoods, and reducing environmental risks.

The items distributed includes 10,000 bulk-sized empty sacks, 25 large canoes, 1,000 sickles, 500 cutlasses, 500 shovels, 500 headpans, 300 boots, 200 axes, 100 pairs of gumboots, and 40 rolls of rubber ropes.

“Our rivers, wetlands, and water channels are not only environmental assets; they are sources of livelihood for thousands of people through farming, fishing, livestock production and other economic activities. Protecting them is therefore a responsibility we must all share,” he said.

More than 180 kilometres of waterways have already been cleared. With the additional machinery now available, we expect to improve water flow further and reduce flood risks in vulnerable communities.”

He stated that many communities situated along rivers and wetlands continue to face challenges arising from invasive aquatic weeds, blocked channels, and silted waterways, conditions that often contribute to flooding, damage farmlands, and disrupt economic activities.

According to him, the programme forms part of the broader efforts of the state administration to promote environmental sustainability, strengthen climate resilience, and encourage community participation in development initiatives.

Governor Namadi observed that environmental challenges linked to land degradation, poor resource management and climate variability continue to mount pressure on natural ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.

He emphasized that sustained intervention is necessary to preserve these resources and prevent avoidable disasters, particularly in riverine areas where the impact of flooding can be severe.

Governor Namadi said the support was intended to strengthen grassroots participation in environmental management and encourage communities to take ownership of efforts aimed at keeping waterways open and functional.

He commended the beneficiary organizations for their commitment to community service and environmental protection, describing their contributions as vital to the success of the state’s environmental management programmes.

The governor urged the groups to make proper use of the equipment and ensure that the materials are carefully maintained for the benefit of their communities.

The governor also highlighted recent investments made by the state government to expand its capacity for waterway clearance and flood mitigation.

He disclosed that two additional amphibious excavators had been procured under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, bringing the number of state-owned machines to four.

Combined with two excavators earlier provided by the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, the state now has six amphibious excavators dedicated to weed clearance and canal dredging operations.

He explained that the additional equipment would accelerate ongoing interventions across affected areas and build upon the progress already recorded.

He further assured that the Jigawa State Government would continue to support initiatives that promote environmental conservation, climate adaptation, afforestation, pollution control, and responsible management of natural resources.