FG reviews national policy on erosion, flood control after 20 years

The federal government has reviewed the National Erosion and Flood Control Policy (NEFCOP) to strengthen Nigeria’s framework for managing erosion, flooding, and related environmental challenges.

Mahmud Kambari, permanent secretary in the ministry of environment, announced the development during a national stakeholders’ validation workshop on the policy review held in Abuja.

The workshop was organised by the ministry in collaboration with the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, with support from the World Bank.

Kambari said the policy, first launched in 2005, had become outdated, necessitating a review to align with emerging realities and the increasing impacts of climate change.

“It is no longer news that environmental hazards have claimed lives, displaced thousands of people, destroyed farmlands, eroded critical infrastructure, and undermined socio-economic development,” he said.

“Erosion and flood challenges are not merely environmental issues; they are also developmental, social, and economic challenges.”

He described the review as a milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to institutionalise a coordinated and evidence-based approach to erosion and flood management.

Kambari added that the revised policy seeks to promote integrated land and water resource management.

“The National Erosion and Flood Control Policy and its associated documents represent a holistic framework aimed at preventing and mitigating the impact of erosion and flooding,” he said.

“Let us ensure that the policy reflects our national realities, addresses identified gaps, and offers practical solutions across different ecological and administrative contexts.”

Kambari urged stakeholders to commit to the implementation, monitoring, and periodic review of the policy, stressing that environmental sustainability is “an imperative for survival and national development”.

Also speaking, Musa Shaibu, representative of the ACReSAL project, commended the ministry for the progress made, assuring continued support for erosion and flood control initiatives.

On his part, Usman Bokani, director of erosion, flood and coastal zone management at the ministry, expressed concern over the increasing frequency of erosion incidents across the country, warning that the menace threatens livelihoods and infrastructure.

Bokani said the revised policy would undergo extensive technical consultations with experts and stakeholders to ensure it aligns with both national priorities and international best practices.

“The review integrates modern technology to align with national and international framework and provide practical solutions to erosion and flood management,” Bokani said.

The NEFCOP review is expected to serve as a key instrument for guiding federal and state governments in mitigating erosion and flood risks while promoting climate resilience and sustainable development.