Flood Alert: No Release from Lagdo Dam, Nigerians Urged to Remain Calm — Water Resources Minister

Flood Alert: No Release from Lagdo Dam, Nigerians Urged to Remain Calm — Water Resources Minister

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Joseph Utsev, has dispelled growing concerns of potential flooding in Nigeria due to the alleged release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.

In a statement issued Monday evening by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Richard Pheelangwah, the Minister clarified that there has been no release of water from the dam, contrary to reports circulating in some media outlets.

“The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation wishes to state that the Cameroonian authorities have not released water from the Lagdo Dam, contrary to the rumours circulating in the media.”

According to the statement, the Minister spoke directly with Mr. Ahmad Bivoung, the Manager of the Lagdo Dam, who confirmed that the dam’s water level remains low at 2.06 meters and no water discharge has occurred.

“The Honourable Minister, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, on 7th July 2025, had direct communication with the Lagdo Dam Manager, Mr. Ahmad Bivoung, who confirmed that the dam is currently at a low level of 2.06 meters and no water has been released.”

The Ministry emphasized its ongoing collaboration with Cameroonian authorities and assured Nigerians that any official release would be communicated promptly.

“The Ministry is currently maintaining constant communication with Cameroonian authorities and assures the public that any official release of water will be promptly communicated.”

Utsev further urged Nigerians to disregard the false alarm and remain calm, while continuing to adhere to existing flood safety and preparedness guidelines.

“The minister urged the public to disregard false reports and remain calm while continuing to observe flood safety and preparedness measures issued earlier.”

However, precautionary advice was issued to communities in Lokoja (Kogi State), Wurobokki (Adamawa State) and Makurdi (Benue State) to stay alert and monitor updates via the NIHSA Flood Dashboard.

“Prof. Utsev also advised communities receiving early warning signals, particularly in Lokoja (Kogi State), Wurobokki (Adamawa State) and Makurdi (Benue State), to maintain early warning signals and consult the NIHSA Flood Dashboard for reliable, up-to-date information.”

The Minister also highlighted ongoing federal flood control efforts including dam operations along the Benue Trough and infrastructure initiatives such as the proposed Datsin Hausa Dam in Adamawa State, with construction plans under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).

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“The Federal Government’s ongoing commitment to flood management and water infrastructure development along the Benue Trough includes the proactive reservoir operations of existing dams on the tributaries of River Benue to prevent panic releases, the completion of the study and design for the Datsin Hausa dam in Adamawa State and the engagement of a transaction adviser to facilitate its construction under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.”

He also mentioned the strategic use of Kashimbila Dam in Taraba State and the upgrade of Wannune Dam alongside the advanced design of Dura Dam in Benue State.

“In addition, the Kashimbila Dam in Taraba State is being utilised for flood control, while the upgrade of the Wannune Dam and the study and design of the Dura Dam in Benue State have reached an advanced stage.”

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to proactive flood management while urging the public to rely on verified sources for updates.