…holds 3rd Engr U.G jibrin lecture
By Precious Oham
Nigeria Institution of Civil Engineers has called on the state and federal governments to nip the rising cases of flood in the country.
Chairman of the Institution, Engr. Chukwudi Ezugu, said this at the opening ceremony of the 3rd Engr. U.G Jibrin Distinguished Lectures Series with the theme “Trends in Sustainable Civil Infrastructure Development for Economic Growth.”
The public lecture is in honour of Engr. Umar Gambo Jibrin, FNSE, FNICE, OON, an outstanding Civil Engr and Former Executive Secretary of Federal Capital Development Authority Abuja who contributed immensely to the growth and development of Civil Engineering profession in Nigeria.
According to him, Civil Engineers at different levels have made proposals to both state and federal governments to take proactive measures in planning and execution of critical infrastructures to stem the ugly tide.
He said: “In the past, especially last year, the peak of rainy seasons has become a nightmare to millions of Nigerians because of the flooding that accompanies it, resulting in devastating effect including fatalities, loss of precious properties and destruction of key infrastructure, especially homes, road networks, community shores, jetties, water schemes, etc.
“Civil engineers at different levels have brainstormed and made proposals but both the states’ and federal Governments are yet to take concrete actions, in terms of proactive planning and execution of critical infrastructure projects to stem this ugly tide.
“It is in recognition of this disturbing national problem that we have gathered here to raise our voices once again and draw more attention to the urgent need to tackle the problem.
“I believe, he will dissect the issues from poor planning, rapid population growth, inadequate drainage systems and basins, poor environmental management, including solid waste disposal, climate change to poor infrastructure as major contributory factors to this devastating problem.”
Also, the guest speaker at the occasion, Professor O.D Jimoh explained that in the year 2012 flood in Nigeria resulted in 363 deaths and economic damage valued $7.3 billion, while the damage in 2022 is estimated as $6.68 billion with 662 deaths.
The Don called on government at all levels to put in place adequate measures to prevent flooding, saying flooding could lead to shortage of food which could affect the socio economy of the country.
The lecture was well attended by experts, friends of Engr U. G.Jibrin, Royal fathers and members of the Institution.