Sokoto State Government has issued a warning to riverine communities as it introduced fresh emergency safety measures to curb flood-related tragedies across the state.
On Wednesday, Governor Ahmed Aliyu flagged off the distribution of 20 motorised boats and 1,000 life jackets to residents of 10 flood-prone local government areas.
He said the initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property in vulnerable communities.
“Today marks another milestone in our determination to protect the lives of our people.
“These boats and life jackets will go a long way in reducing canoe mishaps and ensuring safer transportation across our waterways,” he said.
Aliyu recalled that 22 out of 23 local government areas in Sokoto were ravaged by floods last year, destroying farmlands, homes, livestock, and the loss of lives. He noted that this year’s flooding has already deepened the hardship of families who rely heavily on waterways for daily movement.
The distribution covered high-risk areas, including Goronyo, Shagari, Sabon Birni, Wamakko, Kebbe, Rabah, Isa, Wurno, Tambuwal, and Silame LGAs, where authorities say rising water levels remain a major threat.
The governor also issued a stern warning to boat operators against overloading and reckless conduct, stressing that negligence and greed would no longer be tolerated.
“We will not fold our arms while lives are lost due to carelessness. Any operator found endangering passengers will face the full weight of the law,” he cautioned.
Aliyu urged traditional rulers and community leaders to sensitize residents on the dangers of unsafe water travel, especially during peak flooding periods.
He assured citizens that his government would continue to strengthen disaster preparedness and emergency response through more interventions to build community resilience.
Residents of the affected communities have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a much-needed relief that will enhance safety on the waterways.
However, safety officials emphasized that equipment alone cannot prevent accidents unless communities strictly comply with safety rules. They called for sustained public enlightenment campaigns to complement the government’s intervention.
With floods still threatening lives and livelihoods across Sokoto, the government’s message remains clear: safety must take precedence, and recklessness on waterways will no longer be condoned.
