Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, has warned Nigerians about the risks of flash floods and river overflows due to ongoing heavy rains.
In a statement released yesterday, its Director-General, Umar Mohammed, urged citizens to take immediate actions to mitigate the impact of potential flooding.
Umar emphasised the importance of public cooperation, stating that“We must heed the agency’s warning by doing the needful — clearing our drainages and gutters, as well as making way for water run-off.”
He noted that prolonged rainfall across the country had already led to devastating flash floods in several regions.
Highlighting the agency’s commitment, Umar reiterated its mandate for effective water resource management.
“NIHSA will continue to monitor daily, the water levels of our major rivers and tributaries, issuing flood warnings and alerts along with providing flood predictions,” he said.
The director-general also revealed data on the water level in key rivers, noting that the “steady rise in the water level of Rivers Niger and Benue has gotten to the red mark.”
He urged residents living along riverbanks to take precautions, advising them to “relocate to safe locations and secure their lives and property.”
Umar stressed the collaborative efforts between NIHSA, emergency response agencies and the media to safeguard lives and property across the nation.
He stated that “It is an effort to help save lives and property of Nigerians in order to abate flood impact, enhance food security and promote national resilience to flood, thereby fostering sustainable water resources management.”
With the rainy season in full swing, the need for vigilance is paramount. NIHSA is encouraging all citizens to stay informed and prepared as they monitor the evolving situation.
