FG issues alert over rising level of River Niger

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) on Friday issued an urgent warning to the public regarding the rising water levels of the River Niger system.

Umar Mohammed, the Director-General of NIHSA, in a statement, noted that floodwaters from these countries are gradually moving towards Nigeria, starting with Kebbi.

According to the agency, 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 Aug. 22, the agency confirmed that these dams are not currently spilling water from their reservoirs”.

The D-G said the risk of flooding is 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 would continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates to the public. (NAN)