FG Issues Fresh Warning to Nigerians: 11 States at Risk of Flooding
By Wisdom Tide
September 20/09/2024
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has raised an urgent alarm concerning potential flooding risks, warning residents in flood-prone areas to take immediate action as water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon is being released into Rivers Niger and Benue.
Release of Water from Lagdo Dam Underway
The NIHSA announced yesterday that the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon had begun releasing water into the major rivers that flow through Nigeria. This action, a regular occurrence that often results in significant flooding, prompted NIHSA to advise residents living in low-lying and flood-prone regions to evacuate to safer grounds.
The agency's warning comes on the heels of a recent flood disaster caused by overflowing water from the Alau Dam, which claimed the lives of over 30 people and displaced thousands in Maiduguri, Borno State, last weekend.
Federal and Regional Collaboration to Mitigate Flood Risk
Umar Mohammed, the Director General of NIHSA, emphasized during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief that proactive steps have been taken to mitigate the flooding risks. According to Mohammed, who was represented by the agency’s Director of Operations and Hydrology, Femi Bejide, an agreement was reached with the Cameroonian authorities to release the water in phases.
“The situation is that water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam is being released already since yesterday, and there is an agreement that the water should be released intermittently to allow Rivers Benue and Niger in Nigeria to manage the increased water volume without causing widespread flooding,” Mohammed explained.
11 States at High Risk of Flooding
NIHSA identified 11 Nigerian states that are particularly vulnerable to flooding due to the release of water from the Lagdo Dam. These states include:
- Adamawa
- Taraba
- Benue
- Nasarawa
- Kogi
- Edo
- Delta
- Anambra
- Bayelsa
- Cross River
- Rivers
The agency urged residents in these areas to remain vigilant and relocate from floodplains to avoid potential disaster.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Flooding
While the immediate situation remains under control, Mohammed stressed that the rising water levels could become dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. He appealed to both government bodies and individuals to take responsibility in flood prevention efforts.
“Everybody has their part to play. While the federal government and agencies like NIHSA and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) are taking action, individuals must also do their part. Those living in flood-prone areas must relocate, and communities should ensure that drainage systems are kept clear of debris to allow water to flow freely,” Mohammed advised.
He also emphasized the importance of keeping waterways free of obstructions, warning that blocked drainage systems could exacerbate the flooding situation.
Government Response and Recommendations
NIHSA has submitted a detailed report to the Presidency outlining recommendations for addressing future flood risks. One of the key suggestions is the de-silting of certain dams across Nigeria to improve their capacity for managing water levels during periods of heavy rainfall or water release from neighboring countries.
“Some of our dams need to be de-silted to improve their capacity and prevent overflow,” Mohammed noted.
As the situation continues to develop, Nigerians are urged to heed the warnings and take appropriate action to safeguard lives and property
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