In response to the rising floodwaters, the Kogi State Government has opened a 5-kilometer alternative route in Nyamanyama Village along the Ganaja-Ajaokuta road. This bypass aims to prevent congestion and alleviate hardship for commuters should the main Ganaja road become impassable due to the ongoing floods.
The proactive measure was taken by the Kogi State Flood Disaster Response Team, following the directive of the State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo. As floodwaters approach dangerous levels, the government seeks to ensure that motorists and passengers are not subjected to the severe delays and difficulties caused by road blockages.
Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Flood Disaster Response Team, Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo, confirmed the swift action taken to open the alternate route. The Commissioner for Works, Engr. Mohammed Yusuf, also expressed satisfaction with the progress made on the road, describing the effort as an example of “responsive governance.”
During a site inspection on Sunday, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, emphasized the devastating effects of the flooding. He noted that the Ganaja-Ajaokuta road is a critical gateway to Southeast and South-South Nigeria, used by hundreds of thousands of commuters daily.
Fanwo warned that the flood situation in Kogi State has already caused significant damage, with properties worth billions lost, homes and farmlands washed away, and major communities submerged. He called for immediate intervention from the Federal Government, stating, “Our resources are stretched as we strive to save the situation.”
Currently, 75% of Ibaji Local Government is under water, with other areas like Ajaokuta, Gegu, and Kupa District severely affected by the flood.
