Flooding in Nigeria keeps getting worse, and it’s not just because of heavy rain. The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) says the real problem is poor planning. They believe many of these disasters could be prevented.
Over 150 Lives Lost in Mokwa Flood
Dr. Samson Opaluwah, chairman of CORBON, spoke after a tragic flood in Mokwa, Niger State, which killed more than 150 people. He offered his sympathy to the families affected and urged leaders at all levels to act fast. He stressed that yearly floods are not surprising they happen regularly and should be expected.
We Know the Problem Now Act
According to Dr. Opaluwah, Nigeria’s rainy and dry seasons are predictable. That’s why he believes local, state, and federal governments must have clear flood prevention plans each year. Instead of always reacting after damage has been done, he urged a shift toward preparing ahead of time.
He also called on the Ministry of Environment and climate agencies to stop delaying action. Nigeria has enough experts to handle the challenge what’s missing is urgency and proper coordination.
Niger and Benue Rivers: Wasted Opportunities
Dr. Opaluwah pointed out that Nigeria is blessed with two large rivers, the Niger and Benue. These should be valuable assets for trade, tourism, and transport. Instead, because they are not properly managed, they turn into threats during heavy rains. He believes this failure is a missed chance for both safety and economic growth.
Building in the Wrong Places
Another major cause of flooding, according to CORBON, is the ongoing construction of buildings on floodplains. When water bodies overflow, they need space to flow. But when homes and structures block that space, floods destroy everything in their way.
Opaluwah said planning authorities must stop allowing buildings in unsafe areas. They should also design cities with better drainage and safer layouts. If homes are already sitting in risky zones, they must either be properly protected or moved out.
The Way Forward
He urged state governments to make better use of the Ecological Fund, which is meant for problems like this. He also promised that CORBON is ready to support any government that wants real, long-term solutions not just quick fixes.
Flooding in Nigeria doesn’t have to keep happening. With smarter planning and the right actions, lives can be saved and communities protected
