Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has flagged off a N34 billion flood and gully erosion control project in Rigasa, while distributing about N2 billion in compensation to 1,000 residents whose properties will be affected by the intervention.
The project, which spans Rigasa in Igabi Local Government Area to Tudun Wada in Kaduna South Local Government Area, is designed to address the perennial flooding and gully erosion that have claimed lives and destroyed property in the affected communities for more than four decades.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Sani described the project as the first of its kind in Northern Nigeria, noting that it reflects his administration’s commitment to protecting lives, property and the environment.
He said the government deliberately paid compensation before the commencement of the project to ensure that no resident is unfairly displaced.
“This government made a promise that no one’s property would be demolished without adequate compensation. Today, we have fulfilled that promise by paying about N2 billion to nearly 1,000 affected residents,” the governor said.
According to him, the state government has so far paid over N5 billion as compensation for various development projects across Kaduna State.
He stressed that development should not come at the expense of citizens’ livelihoods.
“Before embarking on any road or infrastructure project, we ensure that compensation is paid. We do not believe in destroying people’s means of livelihood in the name of development,” he added.
Governor Sani noted that the project goes beyond physical infrastructure, describing it as a critical investment in the safety, dignity and future of the people.
He recalled that communities in Rigasa and Tudun Wada have endured years of devastating floods and gully erosion that destroyed homes, farmlands and public infrastructure while disrupting economic activities.
According to him, upon completion, the project will significantly reduce flooding and land degradation, safeguard critical infrastructure, protect economic assets and restore environmental stability in the affected communities.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Alhaji Abubakar Buba, commended the governor for prioritising environmental sustainability through strategic investments in vulnerable communities.
He said the Rigasa-Tudun Wada intervention covers 17.8 kilometres and is expected to improve environmental conditions while enhancing the socio-economic well-being of residents along the corridor.
Buba added that the project would further position Kaduna State among the leading sub-national governments promoting environmental sustainability in Nigeria.
