The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued a warning to Nigerians following the release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon. The Lagdo Reservoir, located in Cameroon's Northern Province along the Benue River in the Niger basin, spans an area of 586 square kilometers.

In a statement on Tuesday, NIHSA Director General, Umar Mohammed, notified the public about the release of water but reassured that no significant flooding is expected in Nigeria. However, he advised certain states—Kogi, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Cross River, and Rivers—to take necessary precautions to mitigate the potential impact.

"The management of Lagdo Dam has informed NIHSA that regulated water releases at a rate of 100 cubic meters per second (8,640,000 cubic meters per day) will begin today, September 17, 2024," said Mohammed. He noted that the release could increase gradually to 1,000 cubic meters per second over the next seven days, depending on inflow from the Garoua River, which feeds the reservoir and significantly contributes to the Benue River.

The gradual release, according to Mohammed, is designed to avoid overwhelming the Benue River system and prevent major flooding downstream. Water releases are expected to cease once inflow levels from the reservoir decrease.

"Although major flooding is not anticipated, it is crucial for states along the Benue River—such as Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Kogi, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Rivers—to remain vigilant and implement preparedness measures at all levels of government to minimize any flood-related impacts."

NIHSA has assured continuous monitoring of water flow in both the Benue River and other major rivers across the country, with regular updates to be provided to prevent flood disasters.

This development follows recent devastating floods in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, which resulted in the loss of lives and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of residents.