29 Aug 2018 | 09:25 AM UTC
Nigeria: Flooding washes out roads, bridges in west-central Nigeria
Heavy flooding causes infrastructure damage in Niger and Kogi states resulting in significant transportation disruptions; Niger governor seeks federal aid on August 28
Event
Flooding from heavy rain in recent weeks washed out bridges and roads in Nigeria's western state of Niger and central Kogi state on Friday, August 24, causing large transportation delays. Seven bridges in the area failed recently, including the Kwaita Bridge on the Lokoja-Abuja Expressway and a bridge linking the town of Bida to the Niger state capital Minna. Niger's governor Abubakar Sani Bello, called for federal aid on Tuesday, August 28, and warned of future infrastructure damage given the age and disrepair of the road system. Continued transportation disruptions are likely and further flooding may cause additional damage.
Context
Niger state is currently experiencing its rainy season, which lasts from April to October with rainfall totals peaking in September.
Advice
Individuals in and traveling to or through west and central Nigeria should monitor developments, anticipate transportation disruptions, and allow for additional travel time.
