The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), has issued a warning to residents along river banks in the River Benue Basin to move to safer grounds immediately. This advisory follows a significant rise in water levels due to increased rainfall, raising concerns about potential flooding.
In a statement released on Thursday, NIHSA Director General, Umar Mohammed, stated, “Water levels on the River Benue have reached the flooding threshold, and we advise residents to relocate to higher grounds for safety.”
Mohammed also extended the warning to those living along the River Niger, noting that floodwaters are being controlled by the management of Kainji and Jebba Dams. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with emergency agencies to mitigate the impact of flooding.
The government’s call for evacuation comes in the wake of devastating floods caused by the release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, which recently claimed over 30 lives and destroyed thousands of homes in Maiduguri, Borno State.
“Cooperation with emergency management agencies is crucial in building resilience against the recurring floods in Nigeria,” Mohammed added.
Past flood incidents have had catastrophic consequences. In 2022, floods claimed 665 lives, displaced over 2.4 million people, and affected nearly 4.5 million individuals. This year, between April and September 2024, floods have already impacted over 1 million people, with 625,239 displaced and 259 fatalities recorded, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
NIHSA’s warning highlights the urgency for vulnerable communities to take immediate action to avoid further loss of life and property as flooding risks escalate.