By Tosin Kolade
The Director-General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA), Mr Umar Mohammed, says the agency is enhancing its data systems and staff capacity.
He said the effort aims to strengthen Nigeria’s resilience to floods, droughts, and other hydrological hazards.
Mohammed stated this on Thursday in Abuja at a news conference to brief journalists on the agency’s activities and priorities.
He said NiHSA had expanded real-time data collection and upgraded its early warning systems to improve forecast accuracy and disaster preparedness.
“Our forecasts are now supported by satellite imagery, digital modelling, and on-ground measurements that enable us to predict and communicate flood risks more effectively,” he said.
According to him, NiHSA is the national authority for monitoring and managing surface and groundwater resources, producing data that guide policy decisions on water use, agriculture, dam operations, and environmental management.
He said the agency’s wide network of hydrological and groundwater monitoring stations provides real-time information for national planning and risk management.
Mohammed described the Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) as one of NiHSA’s flagship products, forecasting likely flood scenarios across the 36 states and the FCT each year.
“After the release of the AFO, we conduct nationwide sensitisation campaigns to help state governments, emergency agencies, and communities prepare and respond appropriately,” he said.
The D-G said the agency was also investing in advanced technology, including cloud-based data storage and Artificial Intelligence tools for real-time monitoring and flood prediction.
He noted that NiHSA works closely with NiMet, NEMA, and the National Water Resources Institute to ensure hydrological forecasts inform coordinated emergency responses.
Mohammed added that the agency’s collaboration with international organisations such as the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), UNESCO, and ECOWAS had strengthened its technical capacity and alignment with global standards.
He said the agency had also introduced a Performance Management Systemto improve accountability and service delivery, in line with ongoing public sector reforms.
The director-general disclosed that recent hydrological data indicated high water levels along parts of the Niger and Benue Rivers, with potential localised flooding in Kogi, Anambra, and Delta States.
He advised residents in flood-prone areas to remain alert and comply with official advisories.
Mohammed said NiHSA’s flood assessment exercises had revealed contamination of some shallow wells due to floodwater intrusion.
He called for greater collaboration among ministries and humanitarian partners to ensure access to safe drinking water.
He said the agency was developing a Five-Year Strategic Action Planfocused on innovation, regional empowerment, and stakeholder engagement to guide future operations.
According to him, NiHSA’s ongoing initiatives align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises innovation, accountability, and measurable results.
“Through data, technology, and collaboration, NiHSA is contributing to the Renewed Hope Agenda. As climate-related challenges increase, our role becomes even more critical,” he said.
Mohammed reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to providing accurate and timely hydrological information to safeguard lives and support national development.
“Together, we can prevent avoidable disasters and ensure that no Nigerian suffers loss due to lack of information or early warning,” he added. (NAN)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru