FG announces reduced flood risk in Southern Nigeria

The Federal Government, on Saturday, announced a significant reduction in flood risk for the Southern region of Nigeria, following updated assessments from relevant agencies.

It also stressed the importance of preparedness amid changing weather patterns.

The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, provided clarity on the situation after initial concerns regarding potential flooding.

He noted, “Recent developments and data from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the United Nations Platform for Space-Based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN-SPIDER) have informed this update.”

In a statement, the Director of Media and Corporate Communications at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Felix Ale, indicated that initial projections had raised alarms for states like Kogi, Edo, Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa due to the potential overflow of the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, which affected over 18,000 hectares of land by mid-September.

While the immediate flood threat has been averted, Nnaji urged continued vigilance among residents in historically flood-prone areas.

He said: “Through a combination of ongoing mitigating measures by the relevant authorities in Nigeria and improved water management strategies implemented at the Lagdo Dam, the risk has significantly subsided.

“It is essential for all residents and communities to maintain vigilance, particularly as weather patterns remain unpredictable. State governments are encouraged to monitor local water levels closely and prepare for rapid response measures if needed.

“The ministry has committed to ongoing collaboration with NIHSA and NASRDA for real-time monitoring and regular updates on the situation.”

For further information, residents are advised to contact the Ministry’s Public Relations Office.