The Urgent Case for Dredging Rivers Niger and Benue: A National Imperative for Economic Growth, Flood Control, and Political Integration

By Abdul Kezo IkonAllah

As Nigeria braces for yet another rainy season, the annual threat of flooding looms large once again. From Makurdi to Lokoja, and from Onitsha to the Niger Delta, the expected overflow of Rivers Niger and Benue will continue to wreak havoc—displacing thousands, destroying farmlands, and washing away livelihoods. In light of this recurring national tragedy, the urgent dredging of these two major rivers must move from rhetoric to reality.

Beyond the environmental concerns, dredging the Rivers Niger and Benue presents a compelling opportunity for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It holds immense economic, agricultural, and political potential, especially in solidifying support across the northern regions as 2027 approaches.

A Historical Perspective

The idea of dredging the Niger and Benue Rivers is not new. It dates back to colonial times when riverine navigation was the bedrock of trade and mobility. In 2009, the administration of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua initiated the Lower River Niger dredging project with the aim of restoring navigability from Warri in Delta State to Baro in Niger State. Unfortunately, the project stalled due to poor maintenance, policy inconsistency, and political inertia.

Today, a renewed push is needed—this time, with sustained political will, institutional reform, and federal-state collaboration.

Flood Mitigation and Environmental Benefits

The annual floods that devastate riverine communities are largely a result of siltation and the shrinking depth of both rivers. Dredging would deepen the river channels, allowing water to flow more freely and reducing the likelihood of overflow into nearby communities. It is a tested and proven flood control measure in countries such as the Netherlands and Bangladesh.

Given the extensive humanitarian crises often triggered by floods, including internal displacement and loss of agricultural productivity, this should be a priority within Nigeria’s disaster preparedness and climate resilience strategy.

Boosting Inland Waterways and Decongesting Roads

Nigeria’s road network continues to bear the brunt of overuse, with heavy-duty trucks transporting goods across long distances. Dredging the Niger and Benue would significantly enhance inland waterways transportation, providing a safer, cheaper, and more sustainable alternative for moving goods and people.

Reviving inland ports such as Baro, Lokoja, and Onitsha would open up the hinterlands to commercial navigation, reduce pressure on federal roads, and stimulate economic activity along riverine corridors.

Agricultural Revitalization for the North

The North Central and North East regions, rich in arable land, stand to benefit immensely from improved waterway systems. Dredging would facilitate controlled irrigation, improve access to water for farming, and help transport agricultural produce to markets more efficiently.

Furthermore, reduced flooding would mean fewer destroyed farmlands, lower food insecurity, and greater stability for farming communities. This aligns with Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, particularly in addressing rural poverty and driving agricultural self-sufficiency.

A Strategic Political Move for 2027

From a political standpoint, investing in the long-overdue dredging of the Rivers Niger and Benue could become one of President Tinubu’s most strategic moves ahead of the 2027 elections. Northern communities, especially in states like Kogi, Benue, Niger, and Taraba—often neglected in past federal projects—would view this as a strong statement of inclusion and commitment.

In a political climate where tangible developmental strides are the most convincing campaign tools, such a project would be difficult to ignore.

A National Duty, A Presidential Legacy

Dredging the Niger and Benue Rivers is more than an infrastructure project. It is a national necessity—one that touches on disaster management, economic growth, agricultural revitalization, regional equity, and political cohesion. For President Tinubu, it offers a unique chance to leave behind a legacy that transcends party politics and places people and progress first.

The time to act is now.

About the Author:
Abdul Kezo IkonAllah is a public affairs analyst and communications specialist . He writes frequently on national development and policy issues.