The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev has assured Nigerians that there is no threat of flood in the country.
The minister disclosed this in Abuja on Friday, adding that the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency had observed an increase in the volume of flow along the River Benue system, registering a flow level of 8.97 meters today.
He said that reports from inland dams including Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro also showed a consistent flow regime, according to Daily Post.
“In Lokoja, the heightened flow volume along the River Benue system, the flow situation at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers in Lokoja, Kogi State, remains within normal parameters.
“The flow level at the monitoring station downstream of the confluence records 7.80 meters today, compared to 8.24 meters on the same date in 2022.
“As of today, there is no threat to lives and properties, especially those states that are contiguous to Rivers Niger and Benue.”
He, however, urged government at all levels to put measures in place to prevent flood emergencies.
He also emphasized the need for states to increase sensitisation on the need for people living along the river banks to relocate to higher grounds during the peak period of rainfall.
“States and Local Governments should intensify efforts in clearing blocked drainages and also construct new ones where they do not exist.
“Removal of illegal structures constructed within the floodplains, the general public, especially road users, should desist from walking or driving through any pool of water or flood,” he added.
