Nigeria Alerts Public on Lagdo Dam Water Release

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has announced that the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon will begin controlled water releases starting September 17, 2023, initially at a rate of 100m³/s, escalating to 1000m³/s over the following week. This decision is based on inflows from the Garoua River, the primary source for the dam and a significant tributary to the Benue River. NIHSA assured the public that while the water releases are designed to prevent flooding downstream, vigilance is necessary for states bordering the Benue River, including Adamawa, Taraba, and Benue. The agency emphasized that major flooding is not anticipated as flow levels remain within cautionary limits. NIHSA committed to monitoring the situation and providing regular updates to mitigate potential flood impacts. All levels of government are urged to prepare adequately for any possible consequences of the increased water flow.