NEMA monitors Cameroon dam over flood risk

Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency is watching water levels at Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam as authorities prepare for possible flooding along the River Benue. The monitoring forms part of the agency’s preparations for the 2026 flood season.

NEMA said it has increased coordination with federal and state institutions, stepped up surveillance of high-risk areas and continued public awareness efforts. It is working with state and local emergency bodies, traditional institutions and other stakeholders to deliver flood warnings and safety advice to communities.

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There was no immediate threat of any potential collapse of Kagini Dam in Kaduna that could result in massive flooding downstream in Kaduna and Niger States.

The agency said the aim is to turn national forecasts into practical information for residents. People in high-risk areas have been urged to take precautions, including moving to safer locations when necessary. NEMA also said it had responded to flood and windstorm incidents in Uyo, Eket, Ringim, Calabar, Kaduna, Riyom, Yenagoa and Southern Ijaw.

NEMA rejected viral social media reports claiming that the Kagini Dam in Kaduna faced an imminent collapse that could cause major flooding in Kaduna and Niger states. “There was no immediate threat of any potential collapse of Kagini Dam in Kaduna,” it said after a joint assessment. Director-General Zubaida Umar activated the National Emergency Operations Centre in August to improve coordination, data analysis and emergency planning. The agency also conducted a flood simulation exercise in Calabar, Cross River State.

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The Centre serves as a coordination hub for processing operational information and producing timely and reliable data to support planning, decision-making and effective emergency response.