The Federal Government has issued a warning to the Niger Delta and southern states, urging them to prepare for potential flooding due to rising water levels. Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engineer Joseph Utsev, clarified that the recent flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State, was caused by an overflow of the Ngadda River, not the collapse of the Alau Dam.
Utsev explained that the flooding was a result of heavy inflows from the Ngadda River, which caused water to breach the dam’s dyke. He emphasized the need for a complete upgrade of the Alau Dam and warned against substandard performance by contractors or officials.
The minister cautioned that severe flooding is expected in the Niger Delta and other southern regions, urging authorities and citizens to implement emergency measures to minimize damage. He noted that the daily flow on rivers Niger and Benue indicates a significant increase in flow levels, tend-ing towards a RED alert.
Utsev addressed the delay in the Ministry’s visit to the affected areas, explaining that it was due to prior irrigation inspections in the South West. He assured the public that repairs to the Alau Dam would now be a top priority.
The Federal Government sympathizes with the government and people of Borno State on the flood disaster and is working to provide support, including sanitation kits and water treatment facilities to displaced residents.
