The Federal Government has issued a flood warning to states along the River Niger following reports of rising water levels as of August 22, 2024.
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) raised the alert in response to upstream activities in Niger and Mali, as reported by the Niger Basin Authority in Niamey, Niger Republic. The agency warned that floodwaters from these countries are expected to gradually flow into Nigeria through Kebbi State.
In a statement released on Friday, Director General of NIHSA, Umar Mohammed, cautioned that states and communities along the River Niger system should be on high alert. “Flood waters from these two countries are expected to move gradually into Nigeria through Kebbi State,” he said.
To mitigate potential damage, dam operators at Kainji and Jebba on the River Niger have been notified and are on standby. Mohammed also clarified that as of August 22, 2024, no water is being released from the dams' reservoirs. “It is important to note that as at August 22, 2024, the dams are not spilling water from their reservoirs,” Mohammed emphasized.
NIHSA advised that floodwaters are expected to peak towards the end of August and into September, urging the public to stay vigilant during this period.
The agency assured that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide periodic updates to keep the public informed.
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