The Green and Environmental Project Initiative (GEPI), a civil society organisation dedicated to environmental sustainability and climate change advocacy, has commended the Jigawa State Government under the leadership of Governor Malam Umar Namadi for its proactive engagement of community-based organisations (CBOs) in efforts to prevent and mitigate flooding across the state.
The commendation was made by the State Coordinator of GEPI, Comrade Ahmed Ilallah, shortly after the flag-off ceremony for the distribution of working equipment to selected community organisations in Auyo Local Government Area.
According to Comrade Ilallah, the government’s decision to collaborate with local community groups responsible for maintaining and clearing waterways demonstrates a practical and inclusive approach to environmental management and disaster risk reduction.
“This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to protecting lives, livelihoods, and critical infrastructure from the recurring threat of floods.
By empowering community-based organisations with the necessary tools and support, the state is strengthening grassroots participation in environmental protection and climate resilience,” he stated.
GEPI noted that the intervention comes at a crucial time following recent warnings issued by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) in its 2026 Annual Flood Outlook, which identified several parts of the country, including Jigawa State, as vulnerable to flooding during the rainy season.
Similarly, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) identified 17 Local Government Areas and 148 communities in Jigawa State as moderate flood-risk zones for the 2026 rainy season.
The affected local government areas include Auyo, Birniwa, Birnin Kudu, Dutse, Guri, Gwaram, Hadejia, Jahun, Kafin Hausa, Kaugama, Kirikasamma, Kiyawa, Maigatari, Malam Madori, Miga, Ringim, and Taura.
GEPI further applauded Governor Umar Namadi for officially flagging off the distribution of operational equipment to fifteen community-based organisations that have been collaborating with the state government in keeping waterways clear and functional.
The organisation also acknowledged the governor’s renewed commitment to flood control, particularly the acquisition of additional amphibious excavators and the expansion of waterway clearance operations across the state.
According to the governor, over 180 kilometres of waterways have so far been cleared, significantly improving water flow and reducing flood risks in vulnerable communities throughout the state.
GEPI described these achievements as laudable and a demonstration of responsive leadership in addressing environmental challenges and climate-related disasters.
The organisation therefore called on the beneficiary community-based organisations to redouble their efforts and continue rendering selfless service to their communities by ensuring that waterways remain free of obstructions throughout the rainy season.
GEPI reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at environmental protection, climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable community development across Jigawa State.
