Tremors Not Earthquakes — FG Calms Abuja Residents

FG Reassures Abuja - Recent Tremors Not Seismic Activity

According to Prof Ige, the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) has been monitoring the tremors and found them to be low in intensity...

FG takes proactive measures to address Abuja earth trremors concerns.

The Federal Government has moved to calm the nerves of Abuja residents, reassuring them that recent earth tremors in Maitama and Mpape areas are no cause for alarm. These tremors have understandably sparked concerns among locals, with many worrying they could be a precursor to more severe natural disasters like earthquakes.

However, the government's stance is clear: moderate seismic movements are not directly linked to earthquakes. This reassurance comes on the heels of the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency's (NGSA) monitoring efforts, which have determined that the tremors are low in intensity. The NGSA's Director-General, Professor Olusegun Ige, has emphasized that the public should remain calm, as the tremors pose no significant threat to the environment or residents.

It's worth noting that the Federal Government has taken proactive steps to enhance preparedness and mitigation measures. The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has commissioned a national seismic monitoring station in Abuja to improve detection and monitoring capabilities. This move aims to safeguard lives and properties, addressing concerns around natural disasters.

Key Takeaways:

No Direct Link to Earthquakes: Moderate seismic movements are not directly linked to earthquakes.

Low-Intensity Tremors: The NGSA has determined that the tremors are low in intensity.

Proactive Measures: The Federal Government has commissioned a national seismic monitoring station to enhance preparedness and mitigation.

Residents can breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that the government is taking concrete steps to address concerns and ensure public safety.

The Nigerian government is reassuring residents of Abuja that there's no need to panic following the recent earth tremors in Mpape, Maitama, and other suburbs. Dr. Matthew Adepoju, Director-General of the National Space Research and Development Agency, gave this assurance at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday.

According to Prof Ige, the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) has been monitoring the tremors and found them to be low in intensity, posing no significant threat to the environment. The agency reported 48 separate earthquake events between September 13th and 16th, with the intensity and frequency increasing from the 13th to 16th.

Tremor Details:

Location: Mpape, Maitama, and other suburbs in Abuja

Intensity: Weak to light, ranging from III-IV on the Modified Mercalli Scale.

Frequency: Multiple events recorded, with the highest frequency on September 15th.

Source: Accumulated stress along identified faults, releasing seismic energy.

Residents are advised to remain calm, as the NGSA continues to monitor the situation closely. The agency has also activated measures to mitigate seismic risks and will provide updates as necessary.

“It has not reached the stage of panic yet. We want to assure the people of Mpape and Abuja that the earth tremors we experienced are not the type that can cause earthquakes," Adepoju said.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates.

“Again, earth tremors are not unique to Nigeria. This is a global phenomenon. Unlike the tsunami that occurred in the Asia-Pacific region, the tremors we are experiencing here are minor and have nothing to do with earthquakes.

“Regarding drilling, excavation, and blasting of rocks, we have been reliably informed that these activities have been halted in the affected areas. This is a commendable action by the FCT administration, and we encourage them to continue to prevent further aggravation of the seismic activities. Human activities can indeed impact seismic conditions.”

Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, has reassured the public that proactive measures are underway to prevent any potential disasters. His statement comes as a timely response to alleviate concerns and fears surrounding recent seismic activities. Essentially, the minister is emphasizing that the government is taking concrete steps to mitigate risks and ensure public safety. This reassuring message aims to calm the nerves of those affected by the recent tremors, particularly in areas like Mpape and Maitama.

“Many may recall that Mpape experienced a similar sequence of earth tremors from September 5 to 7, 2018, which drew significant local and international attention to Nigeria's increasing seismic activity,” he said.

“The recent tremors were accompanied by loud noises and ground shaking, causing widespread alarm among the residents of Mpape.

“In response, the government is currently processing and analysing comprehensive datasets from its Seismological and GNSS stations to provide relevant recommendations to the FCT Administration.

“We urge the residents of Mpape, and by extension the wider Abuja area, to remain calm and continue their normal activities. NASRDA is closely monitoring the situation and will soon implement measures to mitigate seismic risks.”