By Ihechi Enyinnaya
The Federal Government has alerted Nigerians about the imminent release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, starting September 17. Umar Muhammed, Director General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), announced that the dam will initiate controlled water discharges, initially at a rate of 100m³/s, increasing to 1000m³/s over the next week due to inflows from the Garoua River.
While the gradual discharge aims to prevent significant flooding downstream in Nigeria, the NIHSA emphasizes vigilance for the states bordering the Benue River: Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Rivers. Although no major flooding is expected at this time, authorities are urged to prepare for potential impacts.
NIHSA will closely monitor river conditions and provide updates to help mitigate flood risks.