The Nigerian government has issued an important alert regarding an upcoming water release from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, prompting a call for awareness among citizens. This notification was made by Umar Muhammed, the Director General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, in a statement released on September 17, 2024.
The announcement indicates that the controlled water discharges from the Lagdo Dam will begin immediately at an initial rate of 100 cubic meters per second. Over the following week, this rate is expected to escalate significantly, potentially reaching 1,000 cubic meters per second. This increase will largely depend on inflow levels from the Garoua River, a vital tributary that contributes to the reservoir’s capacity.
The Lagdo Dam has long been a crucial component of regional water management, especially for communities along the Benue River. The Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency noted that the gradual nature of the planned water releases is designed to avoid overwhelming the river system, thereby reducing the risk of substantial flooding downstream. The operators of the dam are taking proactive measures to monitor water levels closely, ensuring that the discharge rates do not exceed the conveyance capacity of the Benue River.
In its statement, the agency emphasized that while the situation is being carefully managed, the public should not panic. “There is no need for alarm as major flooding downstream in Nigeria is not anticipated,” it asserted. Current observations indicate that flow levels along the Benue River are still within cautionary limits, providing some assurance to residents in flood-prone areas.
Local authorities and community leaders are being urged to remain vigilant and prepare for any potential impacts from the water release. The government is committed to keeping the public informed about developments related to the Lagdo Dam and any necessary safety precautions that may arise.
As the situation unfolds, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency will continue to monitor water levels and provide updates to ensure that the public remains informed and prepared. The agency’s proactive approach aims to mitigate risks associated with the water release while emphasizing the importance of community awareness and preparedness in the face of natural resource management challenges.
