The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued a warning about the rising water levels along the River Niger, which have steadily increased between Thursday, September 19, and Tuesday, September 24, 2024.
The agency confirmed a surge in water volumes flowing through the river, heightening concerns about potential flooding in communities located along its banks.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Mrs. Lauretta Samuel, Head of Media and Publicity for NIHSA.
According to her, the agency has been monitoring the situation closely and is working in synergy with the relevant authorities, including the management teams of both Kainji and Jebba dams.
She mentioned that both dams which are key hydroelectric facilities along the River Niger, play a pivotal role in managing water flow, especially during periods of increased rainfall and runoff from upstream sources.
Mrs. Samuel reassured the public that NIHSA is doing everything possible to ensure the dams’ capacities are managed efficiently to prevent spillage that could lead to widespread flooding downstream.
Despite these efforts, NIHSA has sounded a strong warning to communities living along the River Niger to take proactive steps in safeguarding their lives and property.
“We strongly advise residents along the River Niger to keep away from flood plains and clear their water channels to prevent blockages, which could exacerbate the situation,” Mrs. Samuel stated.
Both Kainji and Jebba dams are critical to Nigeria’s power generation, but they also serve an important role in flood control by regulating the release of water during periods of high inflows.
