Benue, N-HYPPADEC Strengthen Partnership On Water Projects, Safety Measures
The Benue State Government has called for deeper collaboration with the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) to enhance infrastructure development and improve safety on the state’s waterways.
The call was made by the state Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode, while receiving the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of N-HYPPADEC, Alhaji Abubakar Yelwa, who visited Makurdi to commiserate with the state government over recent tragic incidents, including the death of the state Head of Service and a boat accident that claimed 11 lives.
Ode, who represented Governor Hyacinth Alia, appreciated N-HYPPADEC for its continued support and intervention in Benue, describing the Commission’s visit as a demonstration of solidarity with the people of the state.
He said investigations into the boat mishap had commenced in collaboration with relevant agencies, including the National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), to ascertain the cause of the accident and prevent future occurrences.
The deputy governor stressed the need for stricter enforcement of waterway safety regulations, including compulsory use of life jackets, proper monitoring of boat operations, and a ban on the use of alcohol and illicit substances by boat operators.
According to him, the state government would continue to partner with N-HYPPADEC, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, and other stakeholders to strengthen safety standards across waterways in Benue.
Ode also commended N-HYPPADEC for its developmental projects in the state, particularly the construction of the Makurdi flood-control dyke, which he said had helped reduce the impact of flooding in vulnerable communities.
He appealed to the Commission to prioritise the completion of the Katsina-Ala Water Works project and improve water distribution from the Greater Makurdi Water Works to expand access to potable water for residents.
“We appreciate the Commission’s humanitarian and developmental interventions and urge it to sustain its partnership with the state to improve the living conditions of our people,” he said.
Responding, Yelwa explained that the purpose of the visit was to identify with the government and people of Benue over the loss of the Head of Service, describing the incident as a painful loss to the state’s civil service.
He added that the boat accident occurred while arrangements for the condolence visit were ongoing, prompting the Commission to extend its visit to include the victims and affected communities.
Yelwa attributed many recurring boat accidents to preventable factors such as overloading, night travel, use of unserviceable boats, reckless navigation, and the influence of alcohol or other substances.
He assured that N-HYPPADEC would work with the Benue State Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, community leaders, and other relevant stakeholders to develop practical solutions aimed at improving water transportation safety.
The N-HYPPADEC boss reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting sustainable development and improving the welfare of communities within its mandate areas.
