The Federal Government has warned Yobe communities to prevent dumping of refuse in drain channels to prevent flooding and erosion challenges.
Alhaji Mustapha Shehuri, the Minister of State for Power, Works and Housing made the call on Friday in Yobe at the inauguration of flood and soil erosion control projects in the state.
The projects, located in Damaturu and Nguru Local Government Areas, was executed through the Ecological Fund Office in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
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“The actualisation and commissioning of the projects underscore the Federal Government’s concerted effort and sincerity of purpose in tackling environmental problems.
“Today’s commissioning and handing over ceremony must be commended as it offer you, the host communities, the opportunity to take ownership of the project to ensure its care, maintenance and sustainability.
“I therefore call on the benefiting communities to see the project as yours, jealously guard it and prevent the dumping of refuse on the constructed drain channels,” he said.
Habiba Lawal, the Permanent Secretary, Ecological Fund Office in the Office of the SGF said the projects were approved by the Federal Executive Council in April and awarded in June 2017.
Lawal, represented by Mr Awal Sanni, a Deputy Director in the Ecological Fund Office, said the projects were among the Federal Government’s second quarter ecological intervention project for 2017.
She said the project was initiated to address the devastating effects of flooding and erosion in the benefiting communities.
The permanent secretary said that the projects were also to reduce threats to lives and property within Damaturu and Nguru townships. NAN)