The Federal Government has issued a fresh flood alert following a significant rise in the water levels of Rivers Niger and Benue, warning communities in flood-prone areas to evacuate immediately.
The warning was issued by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) in a statement released by its Director General, Engr. Muhammad Umar, who confirmed that both rivers have reached their peak levels, posing serious risks to nearby communities.
NiHSA disclosed that many communities across several states are already under threat, particularly those near major dams and along tributaries of the rivers. Some of the areas at high risk include:River Niger Communities: Kainji town, Patigi, New Bussa, Borgu, Mokwa (Niger & Kwara States), Jebba town, Gungu, Gana, Fanga, Bele, Bere, Gaba, and Baro (Kwara & Kogi States).River Benue Communities: Yola North, Yola South, Girei, and Numan in Adamawa State.
Umar provided an update on the current status of key dams contributing to the flood risks:Kainji Dam: Currently spilling excess water. Reservoir level is 138.69m; downstream (tail race) level is 105.00m.
Jebba Dam: Also spilling in coordination with Kainji. Reservoir level is 102.20m; downstream level is 76.30m.Zungeru Dam: Not spilling. Reservoir level is 229.15m; downstream level is 134.17m.
Goronyo Dam: Spilling at maximum capacity, affecting several communities in Sokoto State including Goronyo, Wamako, Shinaka Yerimawa, and Kurukuru.
Kiri Dam (on River Gongola): Spilling excess water, flooding nearby communities like Kiri, Tallum, Banjiram, Purokayo-Lakumna, and Shelleng in Adamawa State.
Umar stressed the importance of early evacuation and preparedness, noting that NiHSA is working closely with dam operators and other stakeholders to minimize the impact of flooding.
Contrary to public speculation, the DG clarified that Lagdo Dam in Cameroon is not currently spilling. The current reservoir level is about 37 meters below its designed height of 40 meters leaving room for water storage.
The ongoing flooding in Adamawa State, he explained, is not due to Lagdo but rather from heavy local rainfall and internal runoff within the Nigerian section of the River Benue catchment.
Umar urged residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant, relocate where necessary, and follow official advisories. He reiterated that the agency will continue monitoring developments and provide timely updates.
“State and local authorities must take proactive steps to safeguard lives and properties,” Umar said. “Flooding is not just a natural disaster,it is a humanitarian and development concern.”
