The Traffic

Benue, Edo, Bayelsa mobilise as Lagdo Dam threat looms

The governments of Benue, Edo, and Bayelsa states in Nigeria are mobilizing to mitigate disaster risks due to potential flooding from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon. Although the Federal Ministry of Water Resources has dismissed reports of the dam's water release, the states are taking precautions.

By Rhalialt Arhuoizah 

*Preparedness Efforts:*

- *Benue State*: Intensified flood sensitization efforts, with the State Emergency Management Agency awaiting directives from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.
- *Edo State*: Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency on high alert, conducting strategic inspections across critical gully erosion sites.
- *Bayelsa State*: Directorate of Flood and Erosion Control clearing natural water channels in Yenagoa and other areas to reduce flood impact .

*Potential Impact:*

- *Affected States*: According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), nine states are likely to be affected, including Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Anambra, Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa.
- *Flood Risks*: Rising water levels in Rivers Niger and Benue may cause severe flooding, with potential displacement and economic losses .

*Relief Efforts:*

- *Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)*: Donated relief materials to flood-ravaged communities in Bayelsa State, partnering with the Ednest Egerue Foundation .