The Niger State Government has warned communities along the Kaduna River Basin to prepare for possible flooding as water levels in the Shiroro Reservoir continue to rise.
The warning followed a notification from North South Power Company Limited, operators of the Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Plant, that sustained inflows into the reservoir could necessitate a controlled release of water this month.
The state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Obed Nana, disclosed this in a public service announcement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria in Minna on Friday.
Nana said the alert was prompted by improved inflows into the River Kaduna catchment and the Shiroro Reservoir amid the ongoing rainy season.
According to him, hydrological observations indicate that high inflows are likely to persist, consistent with the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency.
He explained that any release from the reservoir would be a precautionary measure aimed at maintaining the safety of the dam and reducing risks to communities downstream.
The commissioner urged residents living along the river basin, particularly those in flood-prone locations, to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions for the rest of the rainy season.
Farmers cultivating on the River Kaduna floodplain were advised to exercise caution, while fishermen, boat operators and others whose activities take them onto the water were urged to take additional safety measures.
Nana also tasked community leaders with ensuring that the warning reaches residents promptly and encouraged members of the public to follow subsequent updates from the state government and relevant agencies.
He, however, urged residents not to panic, stressing that the advisory was intended to promote preparedness rather than create fear.
He said residents should take the possibility of rising water levels seriously, particularly if increased inflows lead to a controlled release from the reservoir, and take steps to safeguard lives, property and livelihoods.
Nana assured residents that the state government, working with relevant agencies and stakeholders, would continue monitoring the situation and issue further advisories when necessary.
He urged communities to cooperate with authorities and remain alert throughout the rest of September.
