There is no immediate fear of flooding, according to Prof. Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, who urges all levels of government to take action to prevent flood situations.
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had noticed an increase in the volume of flow along the River Benue system, registering a flow level of 8.97 metres today, Utsev told newsmen in Abuja on Friday.
In comparison to a flow level of 8.80 metres on the same date in 2022, he claimed that this was negligible.
He claimed that data from inland dams like Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro also revealed a steady flow pattern.
The flow status at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers in Lokoja, Kogi State, remains within normal norms despite the increased flow volume along the River Benue system.
The monitoring station downstream of the confluence recorded a flow level of 7.80 metres on this day as opposed to 8.24 metres on the same day in 2022.
“As of right now, there is no threat to lives or property, particularly in the states bordering the rivers Niger and Benue.”
The minister urged all levels of government to be ready and take the necessary precautions to lessen the possibility of flooding at the height of the rainy season.
He urged states to raise awareness of the necessity for residents of riverbank communities to move to higher land during the wettest part of the year.
“States and local governments should work harder to clear blocked drainages and build new ones when necessary.
“Removal of illegal structures erected within the floodplains; the general public, particularly road users, should refrain from walking or driving through any flood or pool of water.”
The minister emphasised the need to recognise the season of prolonged rain, flooding, and tragedies resulting from flooding, which normally occurred in July, August, September, and October.
He claims that releasing water from the dam is essential for preserving its structural integrity and reducing floods in nearby areas.
According to the 2023 Annual Flood Outlook, 178 LGAs in 32 states of the Federation and the FCT fall under the Highly Probable Flood Risk Areas, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
The Moderately Probable Flood Risk Areas encompass 224 LGAs in 35 States of the Federation, including the Federal Capital Territory. (NAN)
