In Nigeria, the government has issued a warning about potential flooding in 11 states following the release of water from a dam in Cameroon. The release of water from the Lagdo dam could lead to flooding, as stated by the Nigerian hydrological agency. There is reassurance that the water release will be gradual, although caution is advised.
Severe floods have caused widespread devastation in northeastern Nigeria, affecting over 400,000 individuals, according to the United Nations. The floods in Borno state have compelled residents to flee their homes to seek refuge in displacement camps. Tragically, 30 people lost their lives in the state due to flooding, triggered by the collapse of a significant dam earlier this month. A considerable portion of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state, was submerged under water.
The ongoing flooding has exacerbated the existing humanitarian crisis in Nigeria, particularly in the conflict-affected northern region, where millions have already been displaced due to armed violence. West Africa has witnessed one of its most severe flooding seasons in years, impacting over 2 million people, which is three times higher than last year. Notably, in 2022, more than 600 individuals were affected by flooding in Nigeria when water was released from the Lagdo dam in Cameroon.