The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced an initiative to construct five buffer dams along the Rivers Niger and Benue. This is in response to the recent severe flooding caused by the release of water from the Lagdo dam.
The announcement was made by Mr. Umar Muhammed, Director-General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), during an interview on Channels TV.
He represented Femi Bejide, the director of operational hydrology at NIHSA. According to Muhammed, the proposal for these buffer dams has been communicated to the Presidency, and the government is actively considering the plan.
“What has to be done is that there is a report that has been submitted to the Presidency. We have to have buffer dams, and five have been proposed, and the federal government is looking at that already,” he stated.
What do you need to know?
The Lagdo dam in Cameroon has been releasing water, causing constant flooding for residents along the states of the Rivers Niger and Benue tributaries in recent weeks. The release is primarily affecting the states of Kogi, Edo, Benue, Adamawa, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Cross Rivers.
Several northern states have also experienced devastating flash floods, wreaking havoc on homes, properties, and farmlands. The collapse of the Alau Dam in Maiduguri has wreaked havoc and displaced a large number of people.
In light of these events, the Federal Government has announced a N3 billion assistance package for the affected states across the country. Additionally, various state governments have stepped up with cash donations and other forms of support for flood victims.
Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, Mr. Umar Muhammad pointed out that the buffer dams that are being suggested are essential for controlling floodwaters. To improve the ability of the Rivers Niger and Benue to handle excess water, he clarified that the current plan calls for desilting existing dams and enlarging the tributaries.
In addition, Mr Umar disclosed that the flooding in Nigeria has worsened since the Cameroonian government started to release water from the Lagdo Dam.
The Nigerian government notified Nigerians on September 17th that the release would last two weeks.
In light of this, residents in flood-prone areas have been urged to relocate to safer zones to avoid potential risks.
