Cameroon Dam Release: Nigerian States Deploy Emergency Measures To Prevent Flood
- Nigerian states are mobilizing emergency shelters in anticipation of flooding from the imminent release of water from Cameroon's Lagdo Dam
- Authorities have identified 11 states at risk and are setting up temporary settlements and relief efforts for affected residents
- Awareness campaigns and emergency measures, including the deployment of speedboats, are underway to ensure public safety and preparedness
In response to the imminent release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon into the River Niger and River Benue, Nigerian states along the flood path are mobilising to establish temporary shelters for affected residents.
On Tuesday, September 17, the federal government alerted Nigerians to the Cameroonian authorities' plan to release water from the Lagdo Dam.
Source: Getty Images
Umar Muhammed, director general/chief executive officer of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, identified 11 states at risk. They are Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, and Rivers.
In Nasarawa state, Danladi Obagu, director of planning, research, and statistics of the Nasarawa State Emergency Management Agency, told the Punch on Wednesday, September 18, that the state had begun setting up temporary settlements for residents in flood-prone areas.
PAY ATTENTION: Legit.ng Needs Your Help! Take our Survey Now and See Improvements at LEGIT.NG Tomorrow
Nigerian states deploy resources for potential flooding
"In preparation for the impending flood, venues for the temporary settlement of displaced persons are already being established in flood-prone areas across the state," Obagu said.
He added that officials had been deployed to Nasarawa, Toto, Doma, Awe, Lafia, Obi, Karu, and Akwanga councils, where flooding could occur following the dam's release.
"Efforts are also being made to assist displaced persons with relief materials when the flood arrives to cushion the impact of the hardship they would face. I would therefore like to reiterate the state government’s commitment to continue to support all residents suffering from situations of natural disasters and crises," Obagu added.
In Benue state, Aondowase Kunde, commissioner for humanitarian affairs and disaster management, disclosed that the government had begun identifying facilities to be used as temporary shelters for flood victims.
Kunde said the state had also set up a technical committee on flood disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response.
"This committee has earmarked camps to relocate would-be victims in case of flooding. Some of the camps include the International Market, LGEA Primary Schools at Wurukum and Demekpe in Makurdi; Akume Atongo Stadium in Katsina-Ala; and RCM Primary School in Logo," he said.
Everyone should be an environmental champion
Dayo Solomon, an environmental advocate, spoke about the need for everyone to join the advocacy while acknowledging that flooding has been a big issue in Nigeria.
He told Legit.ng:
"It is everyone’s responsibility to be an environmental champion, however, don’t follow the trend. Acquire relevant knowledge and understand the BIG WHY to advocate for a better environment. The BIG WHY would be your big propellant. Don’t be discouraged as many would try to undermine your efforts but remember that little efforts translate to BIG IMPACT. Harness your God given talent to advocate for a better environment to the best of your knowledge. Apply for opportunities, keep learning and be hungry to create a positive impact."
Cameroon to release water from Lagdo Dam
Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that the federal government of Nigeria issued an alert to residents in 11 states regarding the imminent release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.
The alert was contained in a statement released by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
Proofreading by James, Ojo Adakole, journalist and copy editor at Legit.ng.
PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy!
Source: Legit.ng
