By Mariam Adams
In a bid to tackle environmental challenges and further strengthen collaborative efforts towards flood management, the Nigerian Navy Ship Lugard in Lokoja, on Tuesday, paid a courtesy visit to the Kogi State Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management.
The visit which was led by the Commander Nigerian Navy Ship LUGARD, Commodore T. Senibo, was aimed at fostering partnership between the Nigerian Navy and the Kogi State Government in addressing the perennial flooding in the state.
Speaking during the meeting, the Commander stated that the Central Naval Command, NNS LUGARD plays a vital role in addressing maritime concerns in the inland waterways of Kogi State
He reassured the state government of the Navy’s commitment to partnership particularly in areas where ecological concerns intersect with national security.
“As the disaster response unit of the maritime force, we recognize the importance of collaborating with stakeholders to address environmental challenges,” he said.
Speaking further, the Commander disclosed that, areas prone to flooding have been identified through a disaster response assessment, prompting the Navy to launch a debris clearance operation of Nataco’s canal and conduct community sensitization programs on effective waste management.
Responding, the Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun, commended the promptness of the visit and welcomed the partnership, noting that it would enhance the state’s flood management capabilities.
He further emphasized that collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and the Kogi State Government is crucial to mitigating the impact of flooding in the state.
Engr. Oluwasegun however assured the Navy that the state government is committed to working together to identify and implement effective solutions to flooding in the state.
“I must express my deepest appreciation to His Excellency, the Governor of Kogi State HE, Alh Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his proactive and visionary leadership in tackling environmental challenges and commitment to safeguarding lives and properties.
“The state government has proactively established a Committee on Flooding, engaging in continuous stakeholder meetings and public awareness campaigns to sensitize residents on flood prevention and safety measures,” the Commissioner said.
In attendance were officials from the Kogi State Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management and senior officials of the Nigerian Navy Ship LUGARD.
