By Hauwa Ali, Fatima Saka and Salifu Faridat
In a significant development, the Government of Cameroon has officially communicated its intention to open the Lagdo Dam, situated within its territory, to alleviate the rising water levels attributed to persistent rainfall.
The Federal Government of Nigeria received this vital notification through a letter bearing the signature of Umar Salisu, Director of African Affairs at the Cameroonian Ministry, over the preceding weekend.
The alert outlines Cameroon’s strategy to commence the controlled release of water through the Lagdo Dam’s flood gates, strategically managing the flow to minimize adverse impacts.
This meticulous approach aims to mitigate and prevent potential damage that the discharged water could inflict on the River Benue basin, shared by both Cameroon and Nigeria.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the ministry has earnestly beseeched Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to adopt precautionary measures to curtail any adverse consequences.
In a parallel effort, residents residing in areas susceptible to the dam’s water flow have been called upon to remain calm and adhere closely to the directives issued by relevant authorities.
The impending release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, as communicated by the Cameroonian government to its Nigerian counterpart, brings to the forefront the dire consequences that such dam releases have had on Nigeria in the past.
It underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate the devastating effects and safeguard the well-being of communities residing along the River Benue basin.
Historically, previous dam releases from Lagdo Dam have unleashed a series of calamities in Nigeria. The uncontrolled deluge of water into the River Benue and its tributaries has resulted in widespread flooding, causing extensive damage to homes, farmlands, and infrastructure.
Nigerian communities along the courses of River Niger and River Benue have borne the brunt of these inundations, experiencing displacement, loss of livelihoods, and even loss of lives.
The consequences of these dam releases extend beyond immediate physical damage. They disrupt the socio-economic fabric of affected communities, leading to food scarcity, increased vulnerability to waterborne diseases, and a protracted process of recovery and rehabilitation.
Moreover, the recurrent nature of these incidents exacerbates the strain on resources and resilience, leaving communities in a perpetual state of insecurity.
In light of these recurring challenges, it is imperative for both the Nigerian and Cameroonian governments to collaborate closely to develop and implement effective solutions.
These solutions should prioritize disaster preparedness and response mechanisms that can swiftly mitigate the impact of dam releases. Key components of such a strategy should include:
Establishing robust early warning systems that can detect changes in dam water levels and forecast potential flooding events. These systems should be technologically advanced and capable of providing real-time information to relevant authorities and communities.
Also, engaging with communities along the River Benue basin to raise awareness about the risks associated with dam releases and to educate residents on evacuation procedures and safety measures will go a long way, as well as investing in the construction of flood-resistant infrastructure, including resilient housing and flood barriers, to minimize damage during flood events.
Implementing sustainable land-use practices and reforestation initiatives will reduce soil erosion and enhance water absorption, thereby decreasing the intensity of flooding, as well as strengthening diplomatic ties with neighboring countries, like Cameroon, to foster cooperation in managing shared water resources and coordinating responses to transboundary water-related disasters.
By supporting research efforts to better understand the dynamics of dam releases and their impact, both countries can achieve more effective mitigation strategies.
The notification of the impending release of water from the Lagdo Dam serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by such events to Nigeria’s River Benue basin communities.
It is incumbent upon the authorities to take proactive measures to protect these vulnerable populations and to work collaboratively with neighboring nations to find lasting solutions to this recurring issue.
By doing so, the devastating effects of dam releases can be significantly mitigated, and the resilience of affected communities can be strengthened for a more secure future.
…President Tinubu to Release White Paper on Flood Control
In an effort to address the looming threat of flooding in Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is poised to release a comprehensive white paper on flood control.
This pivotal document is based on a thorough report submitted by the Presidential Flood Prevention Committee, commissioned by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.
As Nigeria anticipates potential flooding, these proactive measures aim to safeguard the lives and property of those residing in flood-prone areas.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued predictions of possible flooding, prompting the government to take precautionary steps.
Among these measures, the Nasarawa State government has revealed plans to evacuate communities situated in flood-prone regions and to dismantle structures built in waterways.
During a recent press briefing held in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, shed light on the forthcoming release of the White Paper.
This significant document is an outcome of the report presented to the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, by the Presidential Committee for the Development of a Comprehensive Plan of Action for Preventing Flood Disaster in Nigeria.
The report, received towards the end of the Buhari administration, addresses the urgent issue of flood prevention in the country.
The minister confirmed that President Tinubu is currently reviewing the reports, and the release of the White Paper is imminent.
During the joint press briefing, both the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, and the Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, advised individuals residing in riverine areas to consider relocating to higher ground as a precautionary measure in anticipation of potential flooding. Prioritizing safety and taking proactive steps are essential in mitigating potential risks.
Recent updates indicate an increase in the volume of flow along the River Benue system. Presently, the flow level stands at 8.97 meters, compared to 8.80 meters recorded on the same date in 2022, indicating a notable rise in water levels.
This underscores the necessity for ongoing monitoring and preparedness for potential impacts.
The ministers also noted that the flow regime from inland dams such as Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro remains consistent.
Consequently, they encouraged states and local councils to focus on clearing blocked drainages, constructing new ones where needed, and removing illegal structures within floodplains.
Additionally, the Nasarawa State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mr. Yakubu Kwanta, shared plans to prevent the loss of life due to floods in the state. He expressed confidence in the proactive approach taken by the ministry to avert potential flood disasters.
The state government has initiated a comprehensive sensitization campaign targeting communities vulnerable to flooding. The decision to demolish structures located in waterways aligns with NiMet’s recent prediction of potential flooding in 25 states, including Nasarawa State.
Crucially, unblocking waterways and ensuring the free flow of water can significantly reduce the risk of disasters associated with flooding. By facilitating unimpeded water flow, the potential impact of flooding can be minimized.
The state government recognizes the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding lives and property and is fully committed to this cause.
As Nigeria awaits the release of the White Paper by President Tinubu, the nation stands united in its determination to tackle the impending threat of flooding.
The forthcoming document is expected to provide a comprehensive strategy for flood control and disaster prevention, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens in the face of environmental challenges.