Niger Issues Flood Alert to Kaduna River Communities Over Possible Shiroro Dam Release

The Niger State Government has alerted communities along the Kaduna River Basin to possible rising water levels following sustained inflows into the Shiroro Reservoir during the ongoing 2026 rainy season.

The government said a controlled release of water from the Shiroro Reservoir could become necessary in September as a precautionary measure to enhance the safety of the dam and protect downstream communities.

The warning was contained in a public service announcement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Obed Nana, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Minna.

According to Nana, the advisory followed a notification from North South Power Company Limited (NSPCL), operator of the Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Plant, concerning improved inflows into the River Kaduna catchment and the reservoir.

He said recent hydrological observations indicated sustained inflows, with high inflows expected to continue during the rainy season in line with the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).

Nana explained that any controlled release, if required, would be undertaken as a precautionary measure to safeguard the dam structure and downstream communities.

He urged residents, particularly those living in flood-prone areas, river channels and floodplains, to remain vigilant and take appropriate precautions throughout the remainder of the rainy season.

Farmers cultivating along the River Kaduna floodplain were advised to exercise caution, while fishermen, boat operators and others involved in water-based activities were urged to take extra safety measures.

The commissioner also called on community leaders to promptly disseminate the advisory and urged residents to follow further updates from the state government and relevant authorities.

He stressed that residents should not panic but remain alert, noting that increased inflows and any possible release of water could lead to higher water levels.

The state government, he added, would continue to monitor the situation in collaboration with relevant agencies and stakeholders and provide further updates as necessary.