Nigeria faces yet another potential flood crisis as the Federal Government issues an alert concerning possible overflow along the Niger and Benue rivers.
This follows the aftermath of destructive flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State, which has impacted several other regions in the country.
In a press briefing in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, highlighted the urgent need for proactive measures, particularly in southern Nigeria, as a large volume of water moves downstream toward the Niger Delta.
Utsev attributed the Maiduguri flood disaster to the overflow of the Alau Dam, which was overwhelmed by massive inflows from the Ngadda River, a major tributary of River Yedzaram.
“As we recover from this disaster, we must be mindful of the potential contamination of our water sources to avoid further outbreaks of waterborne and communicable diseases,” he added, stressing the importance of public health safety during this period.
He pointed to the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, which lists Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, and 28 other states as high-risk areas for flooding this year.
The minister also called for increased vigilance, especially in areas along the Niger and Benue rivers, as water levels continue to rise.
“This flood disaster that affected Maiduguri and Jere areas was largely due to the overflow of water from Alau Dam, located about 10 kilometers from Maiduguri city centre, owing to massive inflow from Ngadda River, a major tributary of River Yedzaram,” Prof. Utsev said.
What is government doing to address Maiduguri flood
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has dispatched a team of technical experts to assess the flood damage in Maiduguri and surrounding areas with the expectation that they will make recommendations for mitigating further disasters.
Causes of flood
Although residents in Maiduguri have attributed the flood disaster to the collapse and overflow of the Alau Dam, Techparley correspondent, Nabilah Abdulgafar, has compiled common causes of flood for the purpose of public enlightenment. Find below:
- Heavy Rainfall: Top on the list is heavy rainfall from unpredictable weather conditions. This may include seasonal rains or storms, which can trigger flash floods.
- Overflowing Rivers: Residing close to rivers can heighten the risk of flood as climate change can lead a river to overflow its bank.
- Urbanization: Whether we like it or not, rapid urban growth can elevate flood risks. This happens because urbanisation gradually diminishes the natural land available for rainfall absorption.
How to prevent flood incidents in flood-prone areas
To mitigate this risk of flood arising from urbanisation, government should adopt green infrastructure by incorporating permeable pavements, green roofs, and rain gardens to enhance water absorption. Also, experts recommend that cities plan ahead by reserving natural waterways to safeguard and rehabilitate natural rivers and streams during runoffs.
Communities residing close to rivers and other large water bodies are advised to construct and upkeep levees or dams. When this is done adequately, these barriers will prevent floodwaters from encroaching onto homes.
While as humans, we have zero control over the heaviness of a rain, measures can be put in place to prepare ahead for heavy rain. One of these measures include regularly cleaning and maintaining gutters, storm drains, and other drainage systems to prevent blockages.
Safety tips during flooding
- Move valuables to higher floors or elevated areas
- Unplug electrical appliances and switch off main power supply
- Avoid walking or wading through floodwaters, as they may be contaminated or hide hazards
- Keep phone lines open for emergency calls
- As a motorist, avoid driving through floodwaters, as depth and currents can be unpredictable
- If you must move, keep a safe distance from other vehicles
- Stay away from downed power lines and electrical sources
- Be cautious of wildlife, such as snakes, that may be displaced by floodwaters
- Keep essential supplies, such as food, water, and first aid kits, readily available
