Kaduna State to invest N34 billion to fix Rigasa erosion problem

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has announced a N34 billion project to address the long-standing erosion and environmental issues in Rigasa and nearby areas in Kaduna State.

The governor shared this news after visiting the affected locations. He called the erosion a serious problem that has lasted over 30 years.

Mr Sani said the erosion has taken lives, ruined livelihoods, and put many residents at serious environmental and safety risks. He pointed out that there has not been enough help over the years.

One of the erosion sites

He mentioned that the Kaduna State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, will start a project to reclaim damaged lands, restore livelihoods, and create a safer and healthier environment for the people.

“The challenge has persisted for over 30 years, causing immense hardship for communities along the corridor. Our administration is determined to bring lasting solutions to the affected areas,” the governor stated.

Mr Sani explained that the project will cover a 17-kilometre area across Igabi and Kaduna South Local Government Areas, which includes Rigasa and several nearby communities.

He noted that the communities benefiting from this project mainly consist of urban-poor settlements that greatly contribute to Kaduna State’s economy.

The governor revealed that the project has a contract sum of N34 billion and that funding is already secured for smooth execution.

He added that the groundbreaking for the project is expected to happen within the next two weeks, and it should be completed in about 18 months.

Even though the project will impact over 1,200 households during construction, Mr Sani said the state government has set aside more than N2 billion for compensation and support for those affected.

He also mentioned that this project will create jobs, boost economic activities, and improve living conditions in the affected areas.

When completed, the project is expected to benefit over two million people who live and work in the corridor and surrounding regions.

This initiative is one of the largest environmental restoration projects launched by the Kaduna State Government. It aims to significantly lower the risks of erosion, flooding, and land degradation in the affected communities.