- As Cameroon prepares to release water from the Lagdo Dam, the federal government of Nigeria has issued an urgent alert to residents of at least 11 states
- The precautionary measure in August 2026 aims to mitigate potential flooding impacts along the Benue River system
- NEMA and NiMet have assured the public that the situation is under control, but urged vigilance and preparedness
Yola, Adamawa state – The federal government of Nigeria has issued an alert to residents in 11 states regarding the imminent release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.
As reported by Africa Independent Television (AIT), the alert was disclosed during a recent simulation by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Source: Getty Images
TVC News also noted on Sunday, August 23, that NEMA conducted the flood simulation exercise in Adamawa state to strengthen preparedness and response to potential flooding. The exercise is designed to test emergency response systems, improve coordination among relevant agencies, and enhance the capacity of communities and responders to manage flood-related emergencies.
According to reports, authorities of the Lagdo Dam will commence controlled water releases soon.
The initial discharge rate could be 100 cubic meters per second (m³/s), equivalent to 8,640,000 cubic meters per day.
FG issues urgent flood warning to 11 states
This rate is expected to progressively escalate to 1000 m³/s for days, depending on the inflow from the upstream Garoua River, which is the primary source feeding the reservoir and a significant tributary to the Benue River.
NEMA director-general Zubaida Umar, who was represented at the simulation exercise in Adamawa by the director of search and rescue, Air Commodore B. A. Usman, said it was commendable that Nigeria no longer waits for disasters to occur before taking preventive measures.
The NEMA official added:
“Where it (flood disaster) happens, we reduce it to the barest minimum.”
Cameroon plans gradual water discharge
NEMA officials further emphasised that the planned water discharges would be gradual.
The overflow from the Lagdo Dam is expected to cease once there is a noticeable reduction in the flow into the reservoir.
NEMA urged states like Adamawa, Delta and Rivers to heighten their vigilance and implement appropriate preparedness measures. This is to mitigate potential flooding impacts that may arise due to increased flow levels in major rivers during this period.
Source: Getty Images
Legit.ng reports that the Lagdo Dam is situated in the Northern Province of Cameroon, on the Benue River, within the Niger basin. The lake created by the dam covers an area of 586 square kilometres.
The 11 states identified by NEMA as being at risk following water releases from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam are highlighted below:
- Adamawa
- Taraba
- Benue
- Nasarawa
- Kogi
- Edo
- Delta
- Anambra
- Bayelsa
- Cross River
- Rivers
Watch the video on AIT’s Facebook page below for more details on the flood alert here.
FG sends red alert to southern states
Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that the federal government warned the Niger Delta and southern states to prepare for potential flooding.
In addition, the government clarified that the recent flood in Maiduguri was caused by the overflow of the Ngadda River, contrary to earlier reports suggesting the collapse of the Alau Dam.
Source: Legit.ng