October 18, (THEWILL) – The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has warned communities along Rivers Benue and Niger to relocate following a dangerous rise in water levels.
In a statement on Thursday, Director General of the agency, Umar Mohammed, said water gauge data from key stations such as Lokoja, Umaisha, Makurdi, and Ibbi showed consistently high levels, exceeding nine metres between October 9 and October 15.
“The map shows critical flood-prone zones across Nigeria, particularly around stations along the River Benue and River Niger. Makurdi, in particular, has recorded dangerously high water levels, with Lokoja and other stations also nearing flood thresholds”, Mohammed warned.
The DG said the management of the Kainji and Jebba dams was closely monitoring and controlling water releases to prevent downstream flooding along the Niger.
Urging full cooperation with emergency response agencies, Mohammed advised residents to move to safer areas to avoid adverse effects as the rainfall subsists.
