KEY POINTS
- Federal Government prevents a disaster of a flood in Southern Nigeria.
- Prevention methods and water control minimize flood impact on the Lagdo Dam.
- Minister calls for overcoming compliance fatigue in flood-prone areas.
The Federal Government has therefore prevented a flood disaster in Southern Nigeria as studies show reduced level of flood threats. Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, made this announcement on Saturday. An early release by the Director of Media and Corporate Communications at NASRDA, Dr. Felix Nnaji, revealed this information.
From satellite imagery analysis, the agency estimated a burst of the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon. The consequences were going to be disastrous. Even by mid-September, this overflow had threatened well over 18,000 hectares of land. The challenge obliged prevalent action to reduce flood danger to the downstream states of Kogi, Edo, Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa.
Flood risk management principles
If successful flood risk reduction is to be achieved, certain management principles have to be applied. Due to increased awareness by local governments and better management of water at the Lagdo Dam reservoir, the risk of floods has reduced.
“The actual flood threat has been more or less completely eliminated,” Chief Nnaji stated. This brought comfort to those living in the affected areas. Nnaji emphasized cooperation between agencies and state governments in the event’s management. Coordination was particularly crucial in monitoring water discharge.
This success is considered a very desirable result. Residents of areas experiencing heavy rains expected the worst. Potential issues ranged from severe floods to other dangerous consequences that could be lethal.
Ongoing vigilance encouraged
However, the minister pointed out that further caution is still required. He advised against exposing oneself to danger despite the reduced risk. “Although the threat has been mitigated to some extent, people and towns in flood-prone regions should exercise caution,” Nnaji encouraged.
According to The Punch, He urged state governments to continue observing water levels and remain prepared for quick responses when needed. The Federal Government, in conjunction with NIHSA and NASRDA, will monitor the flood situation in real-time. This aims to provide the appropriate response to protect citizens’ lives.
The minister also encouraged communities to remain vigilant and cautious. He mentioned that weather patterns are still unpredictable. He assured that updates will be provided when new information becomes available.
