The Director-General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, has issued a critical flood warning to several states as the release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon begins. In a press statement released on September 17th, 2024, the Director-General informed the public that the dam’s authorities have commenced a controlled release of water at 100 cubic meters per second (m³/s), with plans to gradually increase it to 1000 m³/s over the coming days.
The release from Lagdo Dam, which feeds into the Benue River, poses a potential flood risk to several Nigerian states along its course. The affected states include Adamawa, Taraba, Nasarawa, Benue, Kogi, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Rivers. While NIHSA currently expects no major flooding, Mohammed stressed the need for heightened vigilance and immediate preparedness at all levels of government.
“We urge all state and local authorities, especially those in areas contiguous to the Benue River, to step up their flood preparedness measures,” Mohammed stated. “While the water releases are regulated, we must remain cautious and proactive to mitigate any potential flood risks.”
Recent Flooding in Borno State: A Grim Reminder
This flood warning comes on the heels of recent devastating floods in Borno State, where heavy rains and the overflow of Alu dam claimed numerous lives and displaced thousands of residents. Over the past few weeks, communities in Borno, particularly those near the Yedseram River, have been grappling with severe flooding that has washed away homes, farmlands, and critical infrastructure. The floods, which hit areas such as Jere, Konduga, and Maiduguri, have been reported as some of the worst in the region's history, leaving behind a trail of destruction and a mounting death toll.
Tragically, many residents were unprepared for the scale of the flooding. Reports indicate that over 50 people lost their lives, with dozens still missing. Thousands of families have been displaced, with makeshift camps struggling to provide adequate shelter and resources for the affected populations. This disaster serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather and the importance of flood preparedness.
Mohammed highlighted the Borno floods as a critical example of the damage that can occur if preventive measures are not taken.
Call to Action for Affected States
In light of the impending water releases from the Lagdo Dam, the Director-General has called for swift action from all states likely to be affected. He urged Adamawa, Taraba, Nasarawa, Kogi, and others to set up emergency response teams, monitor water levels closely, and ensure the public is adequately informed of any rising risks.
It is imperative for Local governments to engage with vulnerable communities, advising them on evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and other flood preparedness measures. In addition, NIHSA has express readiness to continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates on the water levels of the Benue River and other major rivers across Nigeria.
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency is committed to providing timely information and using water resources data to help safeguard communities from natural disasters. As the agency continues to monitor the transboundary Benue River and Nigeria’s inland rivers, it will remain proactive in informing the public about any further developments.
With the rainy season still in full swing, and the threat of increased water levels due to the dam releases, the Director-General urged citizens to remain alert and cooperative with emergency management teams to mitigate any risks.
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