The Federal Government has issued a new flood warning for Nigeria as excess water is being released from Jebba Dam. This development follows the regulated water release by Kainji Dam operators, who had maintained a 53cm buffer to manage inflows until now.
In a statement, the Director General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, explained that the agency is closely coordinating with the operators of both Kainji Dam and Jebba Dam, both in Niger state. “We are working closely with the dam operators to manage the reservoirs effectively,” said Mohammed. NIHSA’s Director of Operational Hydrology, Femi Bejide, is also involved in monitoring the situation to ensure safe water levels and prevent flooding.
“The rains are gradually moving south, but some water is still flowing into Nigeria as we’ve observed from our monitoring stations at Jidere Bode and Kende,” Mohammed emphasized. He highlighted the continued collaboration between NIHSA and national as well as international dam authorities to manage the risks of river flooding and support Nigeria’s socio-economic stability.
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The NIHSA chief also reassured Nigerians that water levels in the River Niger Basin have begun to recede since the start of October, signaling a gradual return to stability. Nevertheless, he urged communities to stay vigilant and adhere to flood preparedness protocols as a precaution.
This alert comes in the wake of some of the worst flooding Nigeria has experienced in recent years, particularly in Maiduguri, Borno State, where devastating floods have caused widespread displacement and destruction.
Mohammed reaffirmed NIHSA’s commitment to managing flood risks across the country, ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.
