No Immediate Threat From Impending Floods, Says Minister

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Joseph Utsev, has reassured the public of no cause for alarm over the impending flooding occasioned this year’s rainy season, especially in states bordering Rivers Niger and Benue.

He, however, emphasised the importance of heeding early warning signs and implementing adequate measures in order to curb the flooding menace.

The Minister spoke during a joint press briefing alongside his Minister of State, Bello Goronyo, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Saturday.

Referring to a report from Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), Utsev highlighted that the flow volume along the River Benue system has increased to 8.97 meters as compared to a flow level of 8.80 meters at the same time in 2022.

Furthermore, he said the River Niger system’s flow remains stable, with the level of the River Niger at Niamey, Niger Republic, standing at a normal level of 4.30 meters.

Reports from inland dams including Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro also indicated a consistent flow regime.

The Minister emphasised that the flow situation at the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers in Lokoja, Kogi State, remains within normal parameters with confluence records 7.80 meters as against 8.24 meters last year.

He urged states and local governments to intensify efforts in sensitising general public about clearing blocked drainages and to construct new ones where necessary, as well as remove illegal structures constructed within floodplains.

In light of the upcoming peak rainfall period, he advised people living along the river banks to relocate to higher grounds for safety.

He, therefore, reassured the public that “there is currently no threat to lives and properties, especially those states that are contiguous to Rivers Niger and Benue.”