The Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE) has called on the Federal Government to consider building more dams along the River Niger and River Benue to address the recurring problem of flooding in certain areas of the country. This comes in response to the likelihood of flooding caused by the release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.
The NSE President, Tasiu Gidari-Wudil, emphasized that the construction of additional dams and the dredging of major rivers could provide effective solutions to mitigate the impact of floods. He highlighted the need to prioritize the construction of dams and implement measures to prevent and manage floods in the country.
The call for more dams aligns with the broader effort to manage water resources, prevent flooding, and enhance water security in Nigeria. The release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon has historically led to flooding in parts of Nigeria, particularly in the Benue River basin.
Additionally, Gidari-Wudil discussed other engineering-related issues, including building collapses and the involvement of qualified engineers in construction projects. He also highlighted the need for the government to enforce existing environmental protection policies and address the impact of industrialization, urbanization, and climate change on the environment.
Furthermore, Gidari-Wudil announced the establishment of the NSE Smart Innovation Hub, aimed at promoting technological and innovation development in Nigeria. The hub will provide a platform for research, development, and collaboration on technology challenges and solutions, with a focus on areas such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, automation, and engineering.
Overall, the NSE’s recommendations and initiatives reflect efforts to address critical engineering and environmental challenges in Nigeria and promote sustainable development.