Niger State Issues Flood Alert for Kaduna River Communities

On September 13, the Niger State Government issued a warning to residents and communities along the Kaduna River Basin regarding the possibility of increased water levels due to sustained inflows into the Shiroro Reservoir during the ongoing 2026 rainy season. Mr. Obed Nana, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, stated that a controlled release of water from the Shiroro Reservoir might be necessary in September to enhance the safety of the dam structure and protect downstream communities.

This alert was prompted by a notification from North South Power Company Ltd. (NSPCL), the operators of the Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Plant, which indicated improved inflows into the River Kaduna catchment. Recent hydrological observations confirmed sustained inflows, with expectations of continued high inflows throughout the rainy season, as per the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).

Residents were urged to remain vigilant, particularly in flood-prone areas, and to exercise caution, especially farmers and those engaged in water-based activities.