The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has urged communities along the Rivers Benue and Niger to evacuate to higher ground due to rising water levels from persistent rainfall.
In a statement on Thursday, Director General Umar Mohammed warned that critical flood conditions are developing.
“Residents near riverbanks must evacuate immediately as water levels have reached alarming heights,” Mohammed stated, particularly highlighting Makurdi, which has seen dangerously elevated levels.
He reported that Lokoja and other nearby areas are also approaching flood thresholds.
Data from key monitoring stations, including Lokoja, Umaisha, Makurdi, and Ibbi, indicates water levels have consistently exceeded nine meters between October 9 and 15.
The agency has released a map identifying vulnerable flood zones across the nation.
Mohammed assured that the management of Kainji and Jebba dams is actively regulating water releases to prevent exacerbating the situation downstream.
He emphasised the need for residents to heed warnings and cooperate with emergency services.
“Moving to safer areas is crucial to avoid the devastating effects of these floods,” he urged, as rainfall continues to threaten local communities.”
