FG warns of looming flood disaster as River Niger water levels rise
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued an urgent warning to the public regarding the rapidly increasing water levels in the River Niger system.
Director-General Umar Mohammed stated that floodwaters from Niger and Mali are gradually flowing into Nigeria, starting with Kebbi State.
In a statement on Friday, the agency attributes this development to upstream activities in the two countries, citing reports from the Niger Basin Authority (NBA) in Niamey, Niger Republic.
“NIHSA has assured that dam operators at Kainji and Jebba, situated on the River Niger, have been informed and are on standby. As of August 22, the agency confirmed that these dams are not currently spilling water from their reservoirs,” said the NIHSA boss.
The NIHSA chief added that the risk of flooding was expected to peak by the end of August and into September, urging states and communities along the River Niger system to remain vigilant.
He assured that the agency will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates to the public.
