Benue State Government Implements Flood Prevention Measures Amid Looming Lagdo Dam Threat
Proactive Steps Against Potential Flooding
The Benue State Government has initiated comprehensive measures to mitigate potential flooding risks as concerns grow about the possible opening of Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam. The state’s emergency management agency is taking decisive action to protect communities along flood-prone areas.
Official Statements and Current Situation
According to Terna Ager, Information Officer of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), the state government remains vigilant despite reassurances from federal authorities. “The Minister of Water Resources, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has clarified that Cameroon has not yet begun releasing water from the Lagdo Dam,” Ager stated during a weekend briefing in Makurdi.
Key developments include:
- Continuous monitoring of water levels and dam operations
- Public awareness campaigns through radio jingles
- Preparation for potential evacuation scenarios
- Coordination with federal water resource authorities
Multi-Stakeholder Approach to Flood Prevention
The BSEMA official emphasized that while current reports indicate no immediate threat, the state government isn’t taking any chances. “We’re not resting on our oars,” Ager noted. “Stakeholder meetings are being organized to ensure all necessary precautions are in place.”
Public Awareness and Community Preparedness
Extensive public sensitization efforts are underway across Benue State, particularly targeting residents in high-risk flood zones. The awareness campaigns focus on:
- Early warning signs of flooding
- Emergency response procedures
- Safe evacuation routes
- Temporary shelter locations
Historical Context and Future Preparations
Benue State has experienced devastating floods in previous years when Cameroon released water from the Lagdo Dam. The current preparations aim to prevent a repeat of such disasters through:
- Improved drainage systems in urban areas
- Reinforcement of river embankments
- Pre-positioning of emergency relief materials
- Training for local emergency response teams
Federal-State Coordination
The Benue State Government maintains close communication with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to receive timely updates about the Lagdo Dam situation. This coordination ensures that state authorities can respond quickly if water release becomes imminent.
For continuous updates on flood prevention measures in Benue State, residents are encouraged to monitor official BSEMA communications and local radio stations broadcasting emergency information.
Full credit to the original publisher: Arewa Agenda