The Kwara Government said on Monday that it would collaborate with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to relocate residents of river banks, to protect them from flood disaster.

The government also promised to intensify the provision of infrastructure, to reduce the impact of flooding in the state.

Alhaji Abubakar Amuda-Kannike, the Chairman, state Task Force on Flood Prevention and Control, gave the assurance during the committee's visit to Patigi and Laifigi communities in Patigi and Edu Local Government Areas.

He explained that the visit to the flood-prone communities was part of the mandate of the committee to remind the residents of the dangers of living on the river banks.

Amuda-Kannike charged traditional leaders and other relevant stakeholders to discourage their subjects from engaging in activities that could cause flooding.

He told the Emir of Patigi that the government would continue to be proactive through the dredging of rivers, rehabilitation and construction of roads.

He said that bridges and drains would also be constructed among other palliative measures to mitigate future flooding.

The chairman that the immediate relocation and reconstruction of the flooded Regatta Monument site would be given priority.

He also urged the Emir of Lafiagi to educate the people on the culture of healthy living by clearing their drains and ensuring free flow of water.

Responding, the Etsu of Patigi, Alhaji Chatta Umar, commended the state government for assisting the displaced people and gave an assurance that the people would heed government warning to relocate from riverside, to forestall loss of lives and property.

In a remark, the Commissioner for Environment, Alhaji Abubakar Mora, who was also on the entourage, explained that plans were under way to enlarge the grazing reserves and cattle routes to prevent clashes.

Mora charged the people to key into the Kwara Rice initiative, to enhance food sufficiency and boost business activities.

while promising that the people's request would be given adequate consideration, he advised them not to sabotage government's efforts at preventing the recurrence of flooding in the area