Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwa, Managing Director of the National Hydro-electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), has raised concerns about the threat posed by the ongoing floods in Nigeria to President Bola Tinubu’s food security initiatives. The floods have significantly impacted N-HYPPADEC member states, resulting in the displacement of thousands of farmers and the destruction of vast farmlands.
During a press conference on September 2, 2024, in Minna, Niger State, Sadiq-Yelwa highlighted the severity of the situation, with reports from the National Emergency Management Agency indicating that the floods have claimed nearly 200 lives, displaced over 208,000 people across 28 states, and destroyed numerous homes and farmlands. He noted that 80% of the worst-hit areas are within N-HYPPADEC member states, due to their geographical location and the presence of electricity generation activities.
Sadiq-Yelwa emphasized that the floods pose a serious threat to President Tinubu’s vision for food security and economic growth. He urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on floods, particularly in N-HYPPADEC states, and called for a comprehensive flood management strategy to enhance community resilience and minimize future risks.
N-HYPPADEC has been actively involved in flood and erosion control projects across affected states, including the construction of hydraulic drainage systems and flood control dykes. The Commission has also initiated resettlement housing schemes for flood victims in several states. Despite these efforts, the ongoing floods remain a significant challenge, and Sadiq-Yelwa called for continued support and proactive measures to mitigate the devastating effects on communities and critical infrastructure.
