The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) on Friday issued a public warning over the rising water levels in River Niger. This was revealed by the NIHSA director-general Umar Mohammed in a statement that floodwaters from these countries are gradually moving towards Nigeria, starting with Kebbi. According to NIHSA, the development is attributed to upstream activities in Niger and Mali, with reports from the Niger Basin Authority (NBA) in Niamey, Niger Republic.
“NIHSA has assured that dam operators at Kainji and Jebba, situated on the River Niger, have been informed and are on standby. As of August 22, the agency confirmed that these dams are not currently spilling water from their reservoirs,” said the NIHSA boss.
The NIHSA chief added that the risk of flooding was expected to peak by the end of August and into September, urging states and communities along the River Niger system to remain vigilant.
He said the agency will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates to the public.