As Nigeria reels from the aftermath of severe floods in Maiduguri and other parts of the country, the Federal Government has issued a grave warning about impending flooding along the Niger and Benue rivers.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, alerted the public to the large volumes of water moving downstream, particularly towards the Niger Delta region, where communities must brace for potential flooding. Utsev called for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate the looming threat.
The flood disaster that devastated parts of Borno State, including Maiduguri and Jere, was attributed to an overflow at Alau Dam, 10 kilometres from the state capital, caused by a massive inflow from the Ngadda River. “The 2024 Annual Flood Outlook identified 31 states, including Borno, as high-risk areas,” Utsev explained, adding that regions in Bauchi, Taraba, Benue, and Yobe are also on high alert.
A team of technical experts from several federal agencies is already assessing the situation at Alau Dam, and recommendations are expected in the coming days. The Minister warned of potential water contamination, raising concerns about outbreaks of waterborne diseases following the floods.
The National Emergency Management Agency confirmed that the flooding, which began earlier this week, has claimed more than 30 lives and displaced over 400 people. Despite earlier reports, Utsev clarified that the Alau Dam did not collapse, contrary to widespread speculation. Instead, the disaster was caused by prolonged heavy rainfall and climate change-induced pressures on the dam’s capacity.
As the floodwaters continue to rise, attention has turned southwards, where river flow levels on the Niger and Benue rivers have triggered red alerts. The Federal Government has urged southern communities to prepare for possible flooding, reiterating that early warnings were issued earlier this year to 31 high-risk states.
The Borno State Police Command confirmed the recovery of 11 bodies in flood-affected areas. Rescue operations continue across the region, where the devastation has displaced hundreds and damaged property. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs has called on the government to take urgent measures to prevent further flooding.
In the meantime, the government is pushing ahead with infrastructural upgrades to prevent future disasters. Plans to overhaul Alau Dam, built in 1986, were announced, with Utsev promising sanctions for any delays or substandard work by contractors. Elsewhere, the dredging of the Ogun River is underway as part of broader efforts to prevent perennial flooding in southern communities.
With Nigeria facing an increasingly precarious relationship with its rivers, the focus is now on resilience and rapid response in the face of escalating climate-induced threats.
