Lagdo Dam: LASEMA ready to deal with flood crisis following water release

Lagos ready to deal with flood crisis following release of Lagdo Dam water

News Agency Of Nigeria

August 28, 2023 11:30 PM

LASEMA remains at high alert with improved infrastructure to manage any imminent challenges.

Lagos battles flood crises annually, but LASEMA is confident of a better response in 2023 (image used for illustrative purpose) [Vanguard]

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) says it is prepared for the flood opening as Cameroon is set to open the flood gates of Lagdo Dam on the Benue River.

The LASEMA Permanent Secretary, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, in a statement on Monday, said the agency was fully prepared for the flood opening.

"In line with the paradigm shift from response to effective and efficient disaster management, preparedness and prevention, the state has carried out holistic measures.

"This holistic measures include the sensitisation and advocacy in historically affected areas and empowerment of local emergency management committees.

"This also includes strengthening of the early warning systems and clearing of drainage and gutters at the state and local government area levels.

"We remain at high alert with improved infrastructure to manage any imminent challenges," he said.

He, however, appealed to residents to remain calm.

The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) recalls that there had been alert over a possible flood along the River Benue basin in a few days.

The alert was issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a letter dated August 21, and signed by Umar Salisu, the ministry's Director of African Affairs.

News Agency Of Nigeria