- Pix above: Severe flooding in Nigeria suburb
SHARE THIS
The Honourable Minister of Water Resources & Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, alongside the Honourable Minister of State for Water Resources & Sanitation, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., have addressed concerns about preparedness of Nigerians against potential flooding during the ongoing rainy season in Nigeria, noting, particularly, an increase in the volume of flow along the River Benue system.
Engr. Prof. Utsev emphasized that the flow level at Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA)’s gauging station in Makurdi is currently at 8.97 meters as at August 25th, 2023, compared to 8.80 meters on the same date in 2022.
“In contrast, the flow level of the River Niger system, specifically at Niamey, Niger Republic, remains stable at a normal level of 4.30 meters. Similarly, inland dams, including Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro report consistent flow regimes,” he said.
With regards to the critical hydrological station downstream the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers in Lokoja, Kogi State, Engr. Prof. Utsev assured that the measured parameters are currently within normal limits, stressing that the downstream monitoring station, however, registered a flow level of 7.80 meters on August 25th, 2023, compared to 8.24 meters on the same date in 2022.
Recognizing Nigeria’s downstream position within the Niger River Basin, Prof. Utsev acknowledged the increased rainfall and flooding risk during the months of July to October. He stressed that NIHSA maintains an active information-sharing relationship with Cameroon’s National Hydrological Services on water releases.
The Minister emphasized the necessity for all levels of government to bolster preparedness measures and minimize flooding during the peak of rainy season.
Key recommendations include relocating individuals residing along river banks to higher ground, intensifying drainage maintenance, and constructing new drainage systems.
Engr. Prof. Utsev further emphasized the importance of removing unauthorized structures within floodplains and cautioned the public, particularly road users, against venturing into floodwaters. Importantly, he reassured that, at present, there is no immediate threat to lives and properties, especially in states contiguous to the Rivers Niger and Benue./SHARE THIS
- Tags(m-r): Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, , Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq, and left, Mrs. Esther Didi Walson-Jack, PS, FMWR&S during the press briefing
