Volumetric Analysis of the Niger-Benue River Basin using Surgical Dredging and Conceptual Sand Trap Design for Climate-Resilient Flood Management in Niger–Benue River Basin

Abstract

Flooding in Nigeria’s Niger-Benue River Basin has intensified due to climate change, siltation, and
uncontrolled releases from dams, resulting in recurrent displacement of millions and extensive
economic damage. This study analyzed bathymetric data from the Baro–Nun River section using Surfer
and Rhinoceros 3D software. Findings revealed that dredging sand-filled islands can expand the basin’s
containment volume from 2.81 billion m³ to 4.42 billion m³, providing capacity to absorb extra 1.61
billion m³ emergency discharge. The work strengthened the need for surgical dredging as a sustainable
intervention strategy and a way of minimizing ecological disturbance and reducing maintenance costs.
It further proposed the application of Sand traps technology to further mitigate sediment reaccumulation, ensuring long-term performance. Implementation supports SDG 11 (sustainable cities
and communities) by enhancing flood resilience, restoring navigation, and fostering blue economic
opportunities. The work contributes to the growing need of methods for sustainable river navigation
and transport management.