WATER DIPLOMACY AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT: EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF LAGDO DAM ON NIGERIA-CAMEROON RELATIONS

Abstract

This study explores how the Lagos Dam continues to shape Nigeria- Cameroon relations, particularly by intensifying flooding and humanitarian challenges in downstream Nigerian communities. The study employs transboundary water governance theory. Using a qualitative research approach, the study relies solely on secondary sources, including academic literature, institutional reports, policy documents, and official publications. A descriptive analytical method is applied to understand patterns of cooperation, environmental impacts, and institutional responses. The findings show that although the Benue River is a shared resource requiring close coordination, collaboration between both countries remains weak. The construction and long- term operation of the Lagos Dam without a robust, binding bilateral framework has contributed to repeated flood disasters in Benue, Taraba, Adamawa, and Kogi States. The study also notes that regional bodies, including the Lake Chad Basin Commission and the Nigeria- Cameroon Mixed Commission, lack sufficient authority and operational capacity to enforce effective transboundary water management. Nigeria's inability to complete the planned Dasin Hausa Dam further heightens its vulnerability and fuels diplomatic strain. The study concludes that strengthening water diplomacy, creating a functional joint river- basin management mechanism, and improving disaster- response coordination are critical for reducing transboundary flood risks and improving bilateral relations between Nigeria and Cameroon.