The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing monitoring strategies for surface and groundwater reserves.

This initiative aims to align with international best practices and mitigate the impact of flooding in Nigeria.

In a statement on Monday, NIHSA’s director general, Umar Mohammed, stated that the severe flooding experienced in 2024 was primarily due to excessive rainfall and climate change.

He said NIHSA plans to conduct a national survey of major rivers and tributaries to address these challenges beginning next year.

“This initiative aims to identify key rivers for instrumentation and monitoring, thereby strengthening the agency’s flood prediction and early warning systems to protect lives, farmlands, and property,” he stated.

The DG noted that water levels in the Niger and Benue Rivers have been steadily receding below flood levels in recent weeks, coinciding with the expected cessation of rain in the northern and central regions of the country.

He also noted that flooding has significantly diminished and that NIHSA is taking proactive measures by conducting intervention studies in flood-affected states.

The NIHSA boss said these studies aim to understand why floodwaters remain stagnant in certain areas, which will help develop effective flood prevention strategies.

Mr Mohammed thanked Nigerians and stakeholders for their roles in safeguarding lives and property during the challenging flood season.

(NAN)