The Federal Government has warned communities in riverine areas, alerting them to the risk of flooding in August and September due to excessive water flow from neighbouring countries.

In a statement released on Friday, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) cautioned that rising water levels in the River Niger system are a cause for concern. 

Ibrahim Mohammed, Director General of NIHSA, explained that the increase in water levels is partly due to upstream activities in Niger and Mali, as reported by the Niger Basin Authority (NBA) based in Niamey, Niger Republic.

He said the flood waters from these neighbouring countries are expected to progressively flow into Nigeria, particularly affecting areas in Kebbi State. 

Mohammed said in anticipation, dam operators at Kainji and Jebba, located on the River Niger, have been placed on high alert to manage the incoming water levels effectively.

He, however, said as of August 22, neither dam has commenced releasing water from their reservoirs.

The NIHSA boss urged all states and communities along the River Niger system to remain vigilant through the end of August and into September.

Mohammed assured that continuous monitoring of the flood situation is underway, and NIHSA is committed to providing regular updates to keep the public informed.