The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, has assured Nigerians that there is no immediate risk of flooding from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, as current water levels remain well below critical thresholds.
Speaking in Abuja, the Minister revealed that he personally contacted the Lagdo Dam Manager, Mr. Ahmad Bivoung, who confirmed that the dam’s water level stands at just 2.06 meters — far below the level that would require any release of water.
“I reached out directly to the Lagdo Dam authorities to get accurate information. As of now, the water level is at 2.06 meters, which poses no threat. There are no plans to release water, and Nigerians should not panic,” Utsev stated.
His remarks come amid growing public concern over the possibility of flooding in some parts of the country, especially communities along the River Benue, which have historically been affected by overflow from the Lagdo Dam.
The Minister emphasized that the Federal Government is actively monitoring all water bodies and weather patterns through its relevant agencies — including the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). He assured the public that early warning systems are in place to ensure timely alerts in case of any changes.
“We are working closely with both domestic and international partners to ensure that any potential risks are identified early. The safety of our people is our top priority,” he added.
Utsev also called on state governments and local authorities in flood-prone areas to remain alert and take necessary preventive measures. These include clearing drainage systems, sensitizing residents, and preparing emergency response strategies.
While acknowledging the devastating impact of past floods — including the 2022 disaster that affected over 30 states and displaced thousands — the Minister reaffirmed the government’s long-term commitment to addressing the root causes of seasonal flooding. This includes ongoing plans to construct a buffer dam within Nigeria and implement improved water management systems.
He urged the public to rely only on verified information from official government sources, warning against the spread of misinformation that could create unnecessary panic.
“As of now, there is no cause for alarm. The Lagdo Dam does not pose a flood risk to Nigeria. We remain vigilant and will continue to provide regular updates,” Utsev concluded.
