Letter of alert 











The federal government has issued a warning to states and relevant agencies regarding the upcoming release of water from Cameroon's Lagdo Dam on the Benue River. The Cameroonian authorities intend to open the dam due to heavy rainfall in the northern part of their country. In a letter dated August 21, 2023, signed on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Foreign Affairs ministry by Umar Salisu, Director of African Affairs, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) was urged to take necessary proactive steps. These steps aim to mitigate potential damage and sensitize residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant and take precautions.

The letter emphasizes that the release of water from the dam will be conducted gradually in modulated variable amounts to prevent and mitigate damages along the River Benue basin in both Cameroon and Nigeria. This dam's water release will significantly impact approximately 13 states in Nigeria, including Kogi, Benue, Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, Yobe, Niger, Nasarawa, Kebbi, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Cross River, Rivers, and Bayelsa States.

To counteract potential flooding risks, Nigeria's Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation advised flood-prone states to conduct thorough sensitization campaigns. The campaigns aim to ensure clear drainage systems and the relocation of residents living along riverbanks to safer areas. Minister Joseph Utsev and Minister of State Bello Goronyo also issued a statement urging all levels of government to enhance preparations, fostering collaboration, innovation, and positive changes within the ministry.

Despite increased flow along the River Benue system, the statement reassured the public that the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers in Lokoja, a flood-prone zone, maintains normal flow parameters. The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency reported an increase in flow volume along the River Benue system, recording a flow level of 8.97 meters, compared to 8.80 meters on the same date in 2022. On the River Niger system, the flow level at Niamey, Niger Republic, remains stable at 4.30 meters.