Again, there could be some form of agitation in some parts of Nigeria. This is coming as the Federal Government issued a warning to Nigerians about the upcoming release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.
On Tuesday, September 17, the FG warned Nigerians about the upcoming water release from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.
The announcement came in a press statement by the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, Umar Muhammed.
According to the statement, Lagdo Dam operators will begin controlled water releases starting on Tuesday, September 17, 2024.
The initial discharge rate will be set at 100m³/s, equating to 8,640,000m³ per day.
The statement further noted that water discharge is expected to gradually increase to 1000m³/s over the next seven days, based on inflow from the upstream Garoua River.
This river serves as the primary source for the reservoir and a significant tributary to the Benue River.
“Nonetheless, the dam operators have indicated that the planned water discharges will be gradual.
“This approach aims to avoid exceeding the Benue River’s conveyance capacity and triggering substantial flooding downstream in Nigeria,” the statement said.
States To Be Affected By Lagdo Dam Release
The agency reassured the public that there was no immediate cause for alarm.
“The agency unequivocally states that major flooding downstream in Nigeria is not anticipated, as flow levels along the Benue River remain within cautionary limits,” it continued.
However, it emphasised the need for vigilance.
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States bordering the Benue River, including Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi,
Also, the government wants Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, and Rivers, should implement appropriate preparedness measures.
However, the agency will continue to monitor flow conditions of the Benue River and other inland rivers.
Furthermore, it says it will provide regular updates to prevent potential flood disasters.
Lagdo Dam Location
The Lagdo Dam is situated in Northern Cameroon on the Benue River in the Niger basin, covering an area of 586 square kilometers.
Also, the water release has raised concerns in Nigeria. People say it directly impacts many states by affecting the entry point of the River Benue.
This warning comes on the heels of a recent devastating flood in Borno State.
The situation resulted in over 30 fatalities and impacted more than a million residents.
