As heavy rains continue across the country, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) has raised fresh concerns over the rising water levels in Rivers Niger and Benue, warning that both rivers have now reached their peak levels.
The agency, in a statement issued yesterday, cautioned that the development poses a significant threat to communities along the flood plains, particularly in states that are traditionally vulnerable to flooding.According to NiHSA, residents in low-lying areas must brace for possible displacement, destruction of property, and disruption of livelihoods as the rivers overflow their banks. It also urged state governments, emergency agencies, and local authorities to activate flood preparedness and response strategies to mitigate the looming disaster.NiHSA further stressed the need for Nigerians in flood-prone areas to adhere strictly to early warnings, relocate where necessary, and avoid risky practices that could worsen the impact of flooding.
The agency noted that the situation calls for urgent, coordinated action to safeguard lives and property, warning that ignoring the alerts could lead to devastating consequences similar to previous flood disasters witnessed in the country.