The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has raised an alert regarding the increasing water levels in the River Niger, as observed on August 23, 2024. This development stems from reports by the Niger Basin Authority (NBA) in Niamey, Niger Republic, indicating that floodwaters from Niger and Mali are expected to flow into Nigeria through Kebbi State.
The NIHSA has confirmed that the dam operators at Kainji and Jebba along the River Niger have been notified and are prepared for the situation. As of August 22, 2024, no water has been spilled from the dams' reservoirs, signaling that the situation is under control, but close monitoring continues.
NIHSA has urged all states and communities along the River Niger to remain vigilant, particularly as the risk of flooding could increase towards the end of August and into September. The agency has pledged to provide regular updates to the public as the situation evolves.
Full Statement:
⚠️ WARNING ALERT
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), hereby brings to the attention of the general public the rising water levels of the River Niger system as at 23rd August 2024. This is due to among others a report from the Niger Basin Authority (NBA), in Niamey Niger Republic. The situation in Niamey is informed by upstream activities in both Niger and Mali. Flood waters from these 2 countries is expected to move gradually into Nigeria through Kebbi State. The Dams operators at Kianji and Jebba on the River Niger have been informed and are prepared. It is important to note that as at 22nd august 2024, the Dams are not spilling water from their reservoirs. There is need for all the states and communities along the River Niger system to be on alert August ending and September. NIHSA will continue to monitor the flood situation in the country, and provide periodic update to the general public accordingly.
Signed.
Umar Ibrahim Mohammed.
Director General, NIHSA.
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