State government urges residents in vulnerable communities to remain alert as sustained rainfall pushes up water levels around the Shiroro Dam and Kaduna River Basin.

The Niger State Government has warned residents and communities living along the Kaduna River Basin to prepare for possible flooding following rising water levels linked to sustained rainfall and changing conditions around the Shiroro Dam.

The warning was issued as authorities intensify monitoring of the water level at the dam and surrounding waterways amid concerns that continued rainfall could increase pressure on the river system and expose communities in low-lying areas to flooding.

Residents living along the Kaduna River have been urged to remain vigilant, pay close attention to official announcements and take early precautions to protect their lives and property.

The state government said a controlled release of water from the Shiroro Dam could become necessary if conditions require it, stressing that such a measure would be taken as a precaution to safeguard the integrity and safety of the dam structure.

Authorities are expected to continue monitoring rainfall patterns, water levels and conditions around the dam and downstream communities. Further updates will be issued if the situation changes or additional measures become necessary.

The government also advised residents in potentially affected areas not to ignore flood warnings or wait until water levels rise before taking action.

Communities close to the river have been encouraged to identify safer locations, protect important belongings and remain prepared to move to higher ground if authorities issue an evacuation warning.

The alert comes amid renewed concerns over flooding across parts of Nigeria during the rainy season, particularly in communities located close to rivers, dams and other waterways.

Early warnings and community preparedness, authorities noted, remain critical to reducing the loss of lives, destruction of homes and damage to property during flooding incidents.

Residents have therefore been advised to rely on information from government agencies and other authorised authorities rather than unverified reports circulating on social media.

The Niger State Government urged residents to remain calm but vigilant as monitoring operations continue around the Shiroro Dam and the Kaduna River Basin.