Federal University Lokoja Launches Centre for Flood Management and Control

Federal University Lokoja has Launched Centre for Flood Management and Control

In a groundbreaking step towards addressing the persistent threat of flooding across the Niger Basin, the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has officially launched the Centre for Flood Management and Control. This visionary initiative underscores the university’s unwavering commitment to deploying research, education, innovation, and community engagement in solving one of the region’s most pressing environmental and humanitarian challenges.

A highlight of the launch was the formal appointment and assumption of office by the Centre’s inaugural Director, Professor Jimmy Adegoke, a globally renowned climate scientist and former faculty member at Kansas City University, United States of America. Professor Adegoke brings decades of experience and extensive research expertise in climate science and environmental resilience. Under his leadership, the Centre has already commenced strategic research activities in selected flood-prone areas of Kogi State, in collaboration with the state government.

The official inauguration of the Centre marks the beginning of a new era in regional flood risk management. It aims to serve as a catalyst for evidence-based solutions that build long-term resilience and minimize the devastating impact of seasonal floods on lives, infrastructure, and livelihoods across the Niger Basin, a region spanning ten West African countries.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, affirmed the Centre’s mission:

“This Centre represents our resolve to provide practical, research-driven interventions that strengthen the region’s capacity to prepare for, manage, and recover from flood disasters. It will serve as a hub for innovation, training, and policy advocacy.”

Core Objectives of the Centre for Flood Management and Control:
Research: In-depth studies on flood patterns, causes, and socio-economic consequences.
Innovation: Development of early warning systems and flood-resilient technologies.
Training & Education: Specialized programs for students, professionals, and policymakers.
Community Engagement: Grassroots sensitization, preparedness campaigns, and sustainable practices.
Policy Advocacy: Influencing policies through evidence-based research and expert consultations.
Monitoring & Data Sharing: Establishment of a real-time flood observatory and knowledge repository accessible to stakeholders.

Under Professor Adegoke’s stewardship, the Centre is expected to emerge as a beacon of excellence, fostering collaboration among distinguished researchers, government agencies, NGOs, and academic institutions, all working towards a shared goal of safer, more resilient communities.

The launch was hailed as a “landmark achievement”, reinforcing FUL’s proactive leadership in confronting environmental and developmental challenges through scholarship and innovation. With the establishment of the Centre for Flood Management and Control, Federal University Lokoja continues to affirm its place as a thought leader in sustainable development, disaster risk reduction, and strategic policy engagement.

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