The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a warning to Nigerians residing in flood-prone areas to relocate immediately, following the release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.
According to the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), the water has already begun flowing into the River Niger and River Benue, raising concerns about potential flooding in 11 states across Nigeria’s North Central region.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, NIHSA Director-General, Umar Mohammed, represented by the Director of Operations and Hydrology, Femi Bejide, confirmed that the water release began on Wednesday. “Water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam is being released already, and there is an agreement that the release will be in phases to prevent overwhelming the River Niger and River Benue,” Mohammed explained.
NIHSA identified flood-prone states, including Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, and Rivers, as being at high risk of flooding. The agency urged residents in these areas to take precautionary measures and relocate to safer zones. “Look at your house; if it is located on a floodplain, please move. This is an appeal to all Nigerians,” Mohammed stressed.
The NIHSA boss also emphasized the importance of public cooperation in preventing floods, citing the need to clear drainages and waterways to facilitate the smooth flow of water. “Everybody has their part to play; as the Federal Government is doing its part, our agency is doing its part, NEMA is prepared, and individuals must also take responsibility,” he added.
In response to the recurring flood challenges, Mohammed noted that a report has been submitted to the Presidency, outlining plans to build five buffer dams to manage excess water. He added that existing dams would also need de-silting, and the tributaries of River Niger and River Benue would need expansion.
This development follows recent flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State, where water from the overflowing Alau Dam killed over 30 people and destroyed thousands of homes. Flooding in Nigeria has been a persistent issue, with devastating effects in recent years. According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in 2022, floods claimed 665 lives, displaced over 2.4 million people, and affected nearly 4.5 million Nigerians. The release of water from the Lagdo Dam contributed to these events.
As of 2024, NEMA reported that flooding has impacted over 1 million people between April and September, resulting in the displacement of 625,239 individuals and the loss of 259 lives.
