BREAKING: FG raises alarm as River Niger rises above normal level

The federal government has raised an alarm and warned the general public over the rising water levels of the River Niger system. The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) raised the alarm on Friday.

Mr Umar Mohammed,  the Director General of NIHSA in a statement noted that floodwaters from countries in the River Niger system are gradually moving towards Nigeria, starting with Kebbi State.

According to the agency, the development is attributed to upstream activities in Niger Republic and Mali, and with reports from the Niger Basin Authority (NBA) in Niamey, Niger Republic.

NIHSA assures that dam operators at Kainji and Jebba, situated on the River Niger, have been informed and are on standby.

“As of August 22, the agency confirmed that these dams are not currently spilling water from their reservoirs,” the statement reads.

The D-G said the risk of flooding is expected to peak by the end of August and into September, urging States and communities along the River Niger system to remain vigilant.

He said the agency will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates to the public.