The Hadejia Local Government Council of Jigawa State has commenced the construction of a three-kilometer tunnel designed to channel excess water from a pond into the Hadejia River, in a bid to curb recurring flooding in the area.
The Council’s Information Officer, Muhammad Talaki, disclosed this in a statement to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Dutse.
According to the statement, the Chairman of Hadejia Local Government, Alhaji Ahmed Abba-Ari, announced the project during its official inauguration, estimating the cost at about N60 million.
Abba-Ari explained that the intervention was aimed at providing a lasting solution to the annual flooding caused by the Jaribola pond, which has for years destroyed farmlands, displaced families, disrupted markets, and threatened livelihoods.
“This project is part of our commitment to safeguard the lives and property of our citizens. The tunnel, when completed, will reduce the devastating impact of seasonal flooding and improve water management in this community,” he said.
Also speaking, the Head of Works Department in the council, Alhaji Muhammad Ubale, assured residents that the contractor would deliver the project in line with the contractual agreement and with all necessary facilities.
Flooding has remained a recurring challenge in Jigawa State, with heavy rains and overflowing rivers displacing thousands of people and destroying crops in recent years. The new tunnel is expected to provide long-term relief to flood-prone communities in Hadejia.