The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Kaduna Area Office, on Wednesday intensified its flood control campaign by taking sensitisation efforts to Mashingin Da’a community in Igabi Local Government Area.
As part of the outreach, the authority distributed 80 life jackets to boat operators, describing them as essential safety kits for passengers crossing the river.
Area Manager, Isah Aliyu, cautioned that blocked drains, illegal structures and indiscriminate dumping of refuse along water corridors were turning seasonal rainfall into destructive floods.
“These practices threaten lives, destroy homes, contaminate water supplies and cripple livelihoods. Collective action must begin now,” Aliyu warned.
He called on traditional rulers and community leaders to promptly report cases of blockages or encroachment to relevant agencies, including NIWA and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Boat operators and passengers were also advised to make safety a priority by wearing life jackets, avoiding trips during storms, steering clear of alcohol or drugs while navigating, and informing relatives of their routes and return times.
“Every trip carries risk, especially during this season. Safety is not negotiable; it is the lifeline that ensures everyone returns home alive. Your actions today can save lives tomorrow. Together we can build a flood-resilient Kaduna by turning awareness into action,” he added.
The state co-ordinator of the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), Abdulhamid Yazid, who also spoke at the event, announced the donation of 50 life jackets by the commission. He explained that the gesture formed part of its mandate to support and develop riverine communities, particularly those affected by hydro-dam activities.
“We are calling on beneficiaries to make good use of these life jackets. Their importance cannot be overstated. They save lives, and they should be used responsibly,” Yazid noted.
Traditional leaders present at the gathering commended NIWA for what they described as an enlightening and educative programme.
Adamu Yusuf, the Sarkin Ruwa of the community, said he had learnt about the dangers of encroaching on waterways and how to properly channel reports to the authorities.
A boat rider, Ayuba Mahmuda, who received one of the life jackets, said it would help keep passengers safe, especially since most travellers could not swim in emergencies. He added that the community still lacked a proper water transport station where passengers could wait for boats or where riders could rest after long trips.
