Bauchi Declares War on Floods: Massive Desilting Campaign Sweeps Across 20 LGAs
By Abdulwahab Muhammad Bauchà SSA COMMUNICATION
As the rainy season looms, Bauchi State is taking no chances. In a bold and proactive move, the state government has launched a statewide desilting campaign across all 20 local government areas, aiming to prevent the devastating floods that have plagued communities year after year.
Clearing the Way: Drainages, Culverts, and Waterways Targeted
The campaign, flagged off in the state capital, is a direct response to early flood warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET). Teams of government officials, environmental workers, and community volunteers have mobilized to clear blocked drainages, culverts, and waterways—critical infrastructure that often gets overwhelmed during heavy rains.
“We’re Acting Early, Not Waiting for Disaster” — Commissioner Kawule
Speaking to journalists during the launch, Commissioner for Housing and Environment, Danlami Ahmed Kawule, emphasized that the initiative aligns with Governor Bala Mohammed’s directive to tackle flood risks before they escalate into emergencies.
> “We cannot afford to wait until lives and property are at risk. This campaign is about prevention, not reaction,” Kawule stated.
He also urged residents to support the effort by keeping their environments clean and avoiding indiscriminate dumping of refuse, which often clogs drainage systems and worsens flooding.
Desilting Is Not a One-Time Fix — ACReSAL Coordinator Warns
Dr. Kabir Ibrahim, State Coordinator of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, stressed that desilting must be a continuous process. He pointed out that runoff waste, especially in densely populated and poorly drained areas, remains a persistent challenge.
> “We need sustained community involvement. Desilting isn’t just a government responsibility—it’s everyone’s business,” Dr. Ibrahim said.
A Model for Climate Resilience
This campaign is more than just a cleanup—it’s a statement of intent. Bauchi is positioning itself as a model for climate resilience and disaster preparedness, showing that early action and community collaboration can make all the difference.
Join the Movement
Whether you're a resident, a business owner, or a student, you can play a part:
- Keep your surroundings clean
- Report blocked drainages
- Volunteer in local cleanup efforts
- Educate others on flood risks
Let’s make Bauchi flood-free—one cleared drain at a time.
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