Environment
THE National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has commissioned and handed over 20 resettlement housing units to families displaced by recurrent flooding in Benue.
The Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, Mr Sadiq Yelwa, while speaking during the ceremony on Tuesday at Mbagen, Buruku Local Government Area, said the project restored hope and dignity to the victims.
Yelwa said the Federal Government was committed to improving the lives of communities affected by hydroelectric power generation.
The MD, who was represented by the commission’s Director of Finance and Administration, Mr Jimoh Gabi, said the commission was established to address the developmental, environmental and socio-economic challenges confronting hydropower-producing communities.
He said its interventions covered housing, healthcare, education, agriculture, water supply, environmental protection, renewable energy and empowerment programmes.
According to him, 63 housing units were approved across beneficiary local government areas in Benue, with the first 20 completed and ready for occupation.
“The completed units comprise 10 houses in Buruku and another 10 in Guma Local Government Area for families displaced by flooding.
“We urge beneficiaries to maintain these homes as lasting assets.
“The commission remains committed to completing the remaining units and implementing more development projects across its mandate areas,” he said.
Yelwa appreciated the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, the Benue State Government, traditional rulers and other stakeholders for supporting the initiative.
Akume in his remarks said the resettlement housing project was one of the flagship interventions of his office.
The SGF who was represented by Prof. Daniel Ipilakya, Director of Engineering and Technical Services, N-HYPPADEC, said the housing units represented safety, renewed livelihoods and the Federal Government’s resolve not to abandon any community affected by natural disasters.
He added that the project also demonstrated the government’s commitment to strengthening climate resilience, reducing disaster risks and improving the quality of life of vulnerable communities.
Gov. Hyacinth Alia commended N-HYPPADEC for completing the housing units and handing them over to the victims.
Alia was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Deborah Aber.
Alia commended the federal government’s commitment to improving the welfare of communities affected by hydroelectric power projects and addressing displacement with dignity and compassion.
He assured the Commission of the state government’s cooperation in facilitating the inspection, handover and occupation of the housing units by the beneficiaries.
The governor also pledged continued partnership with development agencies to promote inclusive growth and improve the living standards of the people.
The Ter Buruku, His Royal Highness Moses Hanior, described the project as a major milestone that would improve the residents’ well-being.
Hanior assured N-HYPPADEC that the community would protect and maintain the housing units and appealed to the commission to construct a perimeter fence around the health facility to improve security.
The traditional ruler lauded the Federal Government, N-HYPPADEC and the Benue Government for intervening to significantly boost community development. (NAN)
F.O
Tags: Benue flood