Concerns have arisen regarding the planned release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon into the River Niger and River Benue, prompting states along the anticipated flood route to begin preparations for temporary shelters for those affected.
On Tuesday, the Federal Government informed the public about the Cameroonian authorities’ decision to release water from the Lagdo Dam. Umar Muhammed, the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, issued a statement identifying 11 states that could be impacted.
These include Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, and Rivers.
On Wednesday, Danladi Obagu, the Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics at the Nasarawa State Emergency Management Agency, told The NAIJATRAFFIC that the state has started establishing temporary housing for residents in flood-prone areas.
He noted that awareness campaigns are already underway across all 13 local government areas to educate residents about the hazards of living in these vulnerable locations.
“In anticipation of the upcoming flood, preparations for temporary housing for displaced individuals are being made in high-risk areas,” he stated, adding that officials have been dispatched to Nasarawa, Toto, Doma, Awe, Lafia, Obi, Karu, and Akwanga councils, where flooding is likely due to the dam’s water release.
“Efforts are also underway to provide relief materials to those displaced by the floods, aimed at mitigating the hardships they will face. I would like to reaffirm the state government’s commitment to support all residents affected by natural disasters and crises,” he added.
In Benue State, Aondowase Kunde, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, announced Wednesday that the government has begun identifying facilities to serve as temporary shelters for flood victims. Furthermore, a technical committee has been established to focus on flood disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response. Eighteen local government areas, including Makurdi, Guma, Gwer West, Katsina-Ala, Logo, Agatu, and Apa, have been identified as vulnerable to flooding.
“This committee has designated camps for prospective victims in anticipation of flooding. These include the International Market, LGEA Primary Schools in Wurukum and Demekpe in Makurdi, Akume Atongo Stadium in Katsina-Ala, and RCM Primary School in Logo,” he stated. The commissioner advised residents living near riverbanks to begin relocating.
In Taraba State, both the State Emergency Management Agency and the National Emergency Management Agency have been placed on high alert. Saviour Noku, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Humanitarian Affairs, shared this information in a phone interview from Jalingo. He mentioned that awareness campaigns are being conducted through radio and social media to inform residents about potential dangers.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that people understand the gravity of the situation and take necessary precautions. These public announcements will continue to air, particularly targeting those living in flood-prone areas.
“In addition to the ongoing media campaign, three speedboats have been deployed for patrol, ready to assist in emergency evacuation and provide swift responses in areas cut off by rising waters. The government has also issued advisories urging residents in flood plains to relocate to safer grounds before the dam’s release to avoid disaster,”
The Kwara State government, through Commissioner for Communication Bola Olukoju, stated that various agencies have held numerous public awareness programs focused on flooding and ways to mitigate its effects in vulnerable regions.
“More of such programmes are still ongoing, including through radio stations and community leaders. The government has de-silted many drainages and water passages within the metropolis while discouraging actions that may exacerbate the threats of climate crises and rising water levels,” she noted.
The commissioner also mentioned that in riverine areas like Patigi, Edu, and others, local leaders continue to engage residents in flood-prone areas, urging them to move to designated relocation sites. “We encourage our people to heed this important advice as the government provides support in various ways,” she added.
The statement also urged the Federal Government to consider dredging the River Niger as a long-term solution to the chronic flooding issues in the region. The Nigeria Meteorological Agency has identified Patigi, Edu, Moro, Kaiama, and Ilorin East Local Government Areas as flood-prone.
Additionally, the Borno State Police Command has issued guidelines to manage the aftermath of recent flooding in Maiduguri, the state capital.
In a statement released Wednesday by the Supervising Police Public Relations Officer for North-East, Ahmed Wakil, the state Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Yusufu, noted that the command is cooperating with relevant agencies to maintain law and order, ensure public safety, prevent criminal activities, and facilitate the rescue of those affected.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant and quickly report any suspicious activities or individuals, avoid entering flooded areas to minimize the risk of waterborne diseases and accidents, and be cautious of potential looting or theft.
They are also encouraged to cooperate with emergency responders and humanitarian aid workers and verify information before sharing it to prevent the spread of misinformation.
