Following a recent deluge that destroyed homes, severed transport routes, and displaced numerous residents in Lafia, the Nasarawa State Government is moving to overhaul the capital’s drainage and waterway infrastructure. Engr. Muhammad Yahaya Wada, head of the Nasarawa State Urban Development Board (NUDB), confirmed that Governor Abdullahi Sule has authorized a comprehensive review of existing drainage plans after recent events exposed significant flaws in the current system.
Wada stated that the flooding affected critical zones like Millionaire Quarters and Bukan Sidi, causing structural failures in buildings where toilets, wells, and foundations have already begun to give way. While the board plans to improve drainage designs, Wada noted that full reconstruction is impractical during the current rainy season. He strongly urged residents in flood-prone areas to vacate their homes temporarily, as further heavy rainfall could lead to more dangerous conditions.
While the state currently lacks the legal authority to forcibly relocate residents, officials are prioritizing safety awareness and property damage assessments. Wada warned that any structures blocking designated drainage right-of-ways will be removed when reconstruction commences to protect the public interest. Separately, Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources Dr. Margaret Elayo visited the disaster zones and ordered the temporary closure of the Sandaji Hotel due to its failure to meet environmental safety standards amidst the flooding.
