The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, has warned Kebbi State that it may soon face flooding due to the rising water levels of River Niger.
The alert follows reports of increased water flow from upstream activities in Niger and Mali.
In a statement issued by NIHSA’s Director General, Umar Mohammed, the agency noted the potential risk of flooding in Kebbi as water from the Niger Basin begins to stream into Nigeria.
According to Mohammed, the situation, informed by data from the Niger Basin Authority, NBA, in Niamey, Niger Republic, indicates that floodwaters from Niger and Mali are gradually making their way towards Nigeria.
He said: “The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) hereby brings to the attention of the general public the rising water levels of the River Niger system as of August 23, 2024.
“This is due to, among other factors, a report from the Niger Basin Authority (NBA) in Niamey, Niger Republic.”
The director general assured that the agency has already alerted dam operators at Kainji and Jebba on the River Niger, guaranteeing they are prepared for any potential increase in water flow.
NIHSA clarified that as of August 22, 2024, the dams have not yet started spilling water from their reservoirs.
NIHSA called on states and communities along the River Niger system to remain watchful, particularly from the end of August through September, when the risk of flooding is expected to be highest.
He said: “NIHSA will continue to monitor the flood situation in the country and provide periodic updates to the general public accordingly.”
