As Nigeria Marks World Rivers Day with Call to Action on Flood Prevention and River Conservation, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has embarked on a comprehensive assessment of the Alau Dam in Borno State following the recent devastating flood that ravaged parts of Nigeria's forested areas.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, made the announcement on Monday at a press briefing in Abuja to commemorate the 2024 World Rivers Day. The global event, celebrated on the fourth Sunday of September, aims to highlight the importance of rivers and promote active participation in protecting these vital waterways.
This year's theme, "Waterways of Life," and sub-theme, "Protect Our Rivers from Pollution," resonated deeply in Nigeria, where floods have caused significant damage and loss of life. The ministry toned down its celebrations out of respect for the victims of the September 10 flood.
He said, “The overall objective of the global event is to stimulate immediate action towards responding to the various threats to our rivers. It is worth noting that rivers play a significant role in the water cycle, especially in the formation of rain. They enhance the economic survival of any region and serve as a habitat for aquatic plants and animals.
“We are marking this year’s celebration on a low key in consideration of the recent flood incident that ravaged parts of Nigeria’s forested areas on September 10, 2024.”
Prof. Utsev expressed solidarity with the government and people of Borno State, emphasizing the ministry's commitment to ensuring the integrity of the Alau Dam and preventing future occurrences. He revealed that the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had announced controlled water releases from Cameroon's Lagdo Dam to mitigate flood risks downstream in Nigeria.
"The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation stands in solidarity with the government and people of Borno State over the unfortunate disaster that claimed lives and property. The ministry has embarked on a comprehensive assessment of the Alau Dam in Maiduguri to ascertain its integrity and to take stringent measures that will help guard against future occurrences.
“The Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency has also announced that the management of Lagdo Dam in Cameroon has begun controlled water releases at 100 cubic metres per second by September 17, 2024, gradually increasing to 1,000 cubic metres per second over a period of seven days.”
The minister directed NIHSA to maintain vigilance on water levels in rivers, particularly in Maiduguri and other riverine areas. State governments along the River Benue were advised to remain vigilant, enhance flood sensitization, clear clogged drainage channels, and relocate people living in flood-prone areas to safeguard property and lives.
“This measure aims to prevent major flooding downstream in Nigeria, particularly along the Benue River. I have therefore directed NIHSA to maintain vigilance on the water levels of the rivers in Maiduguri and other riverine areas across the nation.”
Utsev warned against polluting rivers and harming aquatic ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of protecting Nigeria's waterways. He called on stakeholders to support the ministry's efforts to conserve rivers and prevent floods.
The acting Executive Director of the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission, Mrs. Sakinatu Jimeta, reaffirmed the commission's commitment to protecting riverine ecosystems. She pledged to enhance existing water quality standards, enforce regulations, and conduct regular water quality monitoring and inspections.
“We will ensure the enhancement of the existing water quality standards and guidelines, including more aggressive enforcement of regulations for sustainable surface water abstraction.”
NIHSA's Director General, Umar Mohammed, represented by Stephen Jabo, highlighted the vital role rivers play in supporting countless species and the need for effective flood management. He encouraged proactive measures, reliable hydrological data, and community participation in protecting rivers.
“As we celebrate the importance of our rivers, it is equally crucial to raise awareness about the need for effective flood management. Safeguarding lives and property requires proactive measures to manage flood risks, especially in flood-prone areas. NIHSA remains committed to providing reliable hydrological data and information to support these efforts.
“In conclusion, I encourage us all to actively participate in protecting our rivers. Small actions, such as planting trees along riverbanks, reducing pollution, and safeguarding hydrological monitoring equipment, can make a significant difference. Together, we can protect our waterways for the benefit of future generations.”
Our correspondent has earlier reported that the ravaging floods has caused havoc in many states including Borno state and others with a growing call on states to prepare for impact with measures in place.
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