The Niger State Emergency Management Agency, NSEMA, has raised the alarm over reported structural distress and visible cracks at Kangimi Dam in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, warning of potential flooding in parts of Kaduna and Niger states, the Federal Capital Territory and other adjoining areas.

NSEMA Director-General, Abdullahi Baba-Arah, disclosed this in a statement, urging relevant authorities to urgently assess the condition of the dam and activate preventive measures.

Baba-Arah said the reported structural defects were particularly concerning amid the ongoing rainy season and rising flood risks across the country.

“The Niger State Emergency Management Agency has received with serious concern reports regarding the reported structural distress and visible cracks at Kangimi Dam in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, and the potential risk this may pose to downstream communities in Kaduna State, Niger State, the Federal Capital Territory and other adjoining areas,” he said.

He warned that a major structural failure could result in the sudden release of large volumes of water, potentially causing widespread damage to downstream communities and critical infrastructure.

According to him, the severity of the threat would depend on the actual condition of the dam, reservoir level, downstream drainage systems and prevailing hydrological conditions.

Baba-Arah therefore called on the Federal Government, Kaduna State Government, relevant dam authorities, the National Emergency Management Agency, the Nigeria Hydrological Agency, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and security agencies to urgently determine the level of risk.

He also urged authorities to conduct hydrological and downstream flood-risk assessments and identify vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure that could be affected in the event of a dam failure.

The NSEMA boss called for the establishment of an effective early-warning and emergency communication system, as well as the activation of evacuation and response plans.

He said such plans should include clearly identified evacuation routes, safe locations and assembly points.

Baba-Arah further urged Kaduna, Niger, the FCT and other potentially affected jurisdictions to strengthen inter-state coordination to ensure a rapid and coordinated response should the situation deteriorate.

While urging authorities to act swiftly, he cautioned residents against panic.

“NSEMA advises residents living in potentially flood-prone areas downstream of the dam and along connected waterways to remain alert, calm and attentive to official warnings,” he said.

He advised residents to avoid unnecessary activities around waterways during heavy rainfall, monitor official information, keep essential documents and medicines within reach, and identify safe locations and evacuation routes ahead of time.

He also urged residents to immediately report unusual water movements, sudden flooding or other warning signs to emergency authorities, while warning against spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary panic.