Lara Adejoro
Following the recent devastating flood, the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has embarked on a comprehensive assessment of the Alau Dam in Borno State to ascertain its integrity.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, disclosed this on Monday at a press briefing in Abuja to commemorate the 2024 World Rivers Day in Nigeria, with the theme “Waterways of Life” and the sub-theme “Protect Our Rivers from Pollution.”
The briefing preceded the symbolic tree planting and river clearing at Jabi Lake in Abuja.
World Rivers Day is celebrated to highlight the importance of our rivers and promote active participation to ensure our waterways are protected worldwide.
Globally, the event is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of September every year. However, since Sunday is a work-free day in Nigeria, the National Council on Water Resources approved that Monday should be observed as the day to mark the celebration.
He said, “The overall objective of the global event is to stimulate immediate action towards responding to the various threats to our rivers. It is worth noting that rivers play a significant role in the water cycle, especially in the formation of rain. They enhance the economic survival of any region and serve as a habitat for aquatic plants and animals.
“We are marking this year’s celebration on a low key in consideration of the recent flood incident that ravaged parts of Nigeria’s forested areas on September 10, 2024.
“The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation stands in solidarity with the government and people of Borno State over the unfortunate disaster that claimed lives and property. The ministry has embarked on a comprehensive assessment of the Alau Dam in Maiduguri to ascertain its integrity and to take stringent measures that will help guard against future occurrences.
“The Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency has also announced that the management of Lagdo Dam in Cameroon has begun controlled water releases at 100 cubic metres per second by September 17, 2024, gradually increasing to 1,000 cubic metres per second over a period of seven days. This measure aims to prevent major flooding downstream in Nigeria, particularly along the Benue River. I have therefore directed NIHSA to maintain vigilance on the water levels of the rivers in Maiduguri and other riverine areas across the nation.”
He stressed that state governments along the banks of the River Benue had been advised to remain vigilant and implement preparedness measures to enhance flood sensitisation, mitigate risks, clear clogged drainage channels, and relocate people living in flood-prone areas to safeguard property and lives.
He stated that the 12 river-based development authorities have been directed to monitor all dams and report any occurrences that threaten the safety of lives and property within their respective jurisdictions.
The minister warned against polluting the rivers and urged avoiding practices that could harm them.
The acting Executive Director of the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission, Mrs Sakinatu Jimeta, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to protecting and preserving riverine ecosystems.
Jimeta noted, “We will ensure the enhancement of the existing water quality standards and guidelines, including more aggressive enforcement of regulations for sustainable surface water abstraction.
“In addition, may I solicit the unwavering cooperation of all stakeholders as we embark more strongly on monitoring and enforcement by conducting regular water quality monitoring, inspections, and enforcement of compliance with pollution regulations, as well as establishing surveillance systems for early detection of potential pollutants in our rivers.”
The Director General of NIHSA, Umar Mohammed, stated that rivers are vital for the survival of countless species.
Mohammed, who was represented by a Director at the agency, Stephen Jabo, said that rivers pose challenges, particularly through floods, which can cause significant harm to vulnerable communities.
He said, “As we celebrate the importance of our rivers, it is equally crucial to raise awareness about the need for effective flood management. Safeguarding lives and property requires proactive measures to manage flood risks, especially in flood-prone areas. NIHSA remains committed to providing reliable hydrological data and information to support these efforts.
“In conclusion, I encourage us all to actively participate in protecting our rivers. Small actions, such as planting trees along riverbanks, reducing pollution, and safeguarding hydrological monitoring equipment, can make a significant difference. Together, we can protect our waterways for the benefit of future generations.”
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