The Federal Government has issued a warning to Nigerians about the controlled water release from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, starting from Tuesday, September 17, 2024.
According to the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, the water discharge will gradually increase to 1000m³/s over the next seven days, depending on the inflow from the Garoua River.
_No Cause for Alarm_
The agency reassures that there is no need for panic, as major flooding downstream in Nigeria is unlikely since the Benue River’s flow levels are within cautionary limits. However, states bordering the Benue River system – Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, and Rivers – are advised to be vigilant and implement preparedness measures to mitigate potential flooding impacts.
_Preparedness Measures_
The agency will closely monitor the Benue River’s flow conditions and provide regular updates on water levels to prevent further flood disasters. This comes after last week’s devastating flood in Borno State, which claimed over 30 lives and affected over a million citizens.
_Quote from the Agency_
“The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency wishes to notify the general public that the authorities of the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon have communicated to the agency that they will initiate controlled water releases at a rate of 100m³/s (8,640,000m³/day) starting today, 17 September 2023.”
“The water discharge is anticipated to progressively escalate to 1000m³/s over the next seven days based on the inflow from the upstream Garoua River, which serves as the primary source into the reservoir and a significant tributary to the Benue River.”
“Nonetheless, the dam operators have indicated that the planned water discharges will be gradual to avoid surpassing the conveyance capacity of the Benue river system and triggering substantial flooding downstream in Nigeria.”
_Lagdo Dam’s Impact_
Lag-do in Cameroon’s Northern Province, the Lagdo Dam affects several Nigerian states due to its connection to the Benue River. The agency will continue to provide updates to ensure public safety.
*States Affected by Lagdo Dam’s Water Release:*
– _Adamawa_
– _Taraba_
– _Benue_
– _Nasarawa_
– _Kogi_
– _Edo_
– _Delta_
– _Anambra_
– _Bayelsa_
– _Cross Rivers_
– _Rivers_
