In a concerning development, authorities at the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) have been put on high alert following an impending threat of flooding along the River Benue basin. The alert comes in response to the imminent release of water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.*
*The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a dire warning in a letter dated August 21, signed by the director of African Affairs, Umar Salisu. The East and Central African Division of the Ministry received a crucial communication from the High Commission of the Republic of Cameroon, indicating that the officials of Cameroon have reached a decision to open the flood gates of the Lagdo Dam, situated on the Benue River.*
*According to the letter addressed to the director general of NEMA, the decision to release water from the Lagdo Dam stems from the recent surge in rainfall within the dam’s catchment areas in Northern Cameroon. Fearing the potential repercussions of this decision, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has strongly urged NEMA to take swift and proactive measures to mitigate and prevent the possible damages that could be inflicted by the released water along the River Benue basin, affecting both Cameroon and Nigeria.*
*The letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs further emphasizes the need for NEMA to play a crucial role in sensitizing the communities living in the vulnerable areas. The populace is advised to remain vigilant and to exercise all necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being in the face of the anticipated floodwaters.*
*As the release date of water from the Lagdo Dam draws closer, NEMA is expected to step up its preparedness and response efforts, working collaboratively with both local and international partners to minimize the potential devastation and loss that could result from this impending natural disaster.*
