The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency has warned that communities along Rivers Niger and Benue face heightened risk of severe flooding as water levels in the two rivers and their tributaries approach critical points.
Director-General of NiHSA, Umar Mohammed, in a statement issued on Thursday, said several dams across the country are already spilling excess water, a development that could endanger downstream communities already struggling with seasonal floods.
“Rivers Niger and Benue are now at their peak levels, and what we are witnessing is a major flood wave propagating downstream. The situation poses a serious threat to lives, livelihoods, and farmlands if urgent precautionary measures are not taken,” Mohammed stated.
According to NiHSA, Kainji Dam has begun releasing water with its reservoir level at 138.69 metres, while Jebba Dam is also spilling excess water.
Communities identified as being at risk include Kainji town, Patigi, New Bussa, Borgu, Mokwa, Jebba, Gungu, Gana, Bele, Bere, and Baro, spanning parts of Niger, Kwara, and Kogi states.
The agency further revealed that Goronyo Dam in Sokoto State is “spilling at maximum rate,” worsening flooding in communities such as Goronyo, Wamako, Shinaka Yerimawa, and Kurukuru.
Similarly, Kiri Dam in Adamawa State has begun overflowing, threatening areas including Kiri, Tallum, Banjiram, Purokayo-Lakumna, and Shelleng.
While the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon is not currently spilling, Mohammed noted that “heavy rainfall and internal runoff in its catchment is already causing flooding in parts of Adamawa, particularly Yola North and South, Girei, and Numan.”
He urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant, stressing that NiHSA is working with dam operators to minimise risks.
“Given the high reservoir levels and river flows across the country, communities must take proactive steps to safeguard lives and property. The agency is in close contact with dam authorities to ensure the impact of potential flooding is reduced as much as possible,” he said.
