Twenty Nigerian states face imminent flood risks following a warning from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), prompting residents in vulnerable areas to begin relocating. States including Lagos, Sokoto, Edo, Benue, and Kaduna are among those expected to experience heavy rains and flash floods.
NiMet’s alert stressed the need for residents to clear drainage paths, prepare emergency supplies, and avoid activities that could worsen flooding, such as dumping waste into gutters.
In Lagos, authorities linked recent flash floods to elevated tide levels from the Atlantic Ocean and Lagos Lagoon. Environment Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab confirmed that emergency teams are actively clearing blocked drains in hotspots like Ajegunle and Ikoyi. He cautioned residents against obstructing waterways with refuse.
Kaduna residents have taken flood warnings seriously, with many clearing gutters and relocating valuables. Local resident Lola Seriki shared plans to move to safer ground, while civil servant Abdul Alabi warned that many residents only respond after floods strike. Kaduna’s Emergency Management Agency has launched sensitisation campaigns and established Safe Haven Centres to support displaced persons.
Ondo communities affected by recent floods are urging the government to enhance preventative infrastructure. Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami highlighted ongoing public education and drainage maintenance efforts.
In Yobe State’s Damaturu, residents blame poor drainage for worsening floods. Retired officer Mohammed Suleiman called for urgent government action to improve water flow.
Benue citizens have relocated children to higher ground amid rising river levels, while Jigawa State is mobilizing residents to clear drainage and construct flood barriers. The state’s emergency agency is coordinating with federal bodies to mitigate flood effects.
Delta State’s government is pursuing infrastructure upgrades and public awareness campaigns to reduce flood risks, including dredging rivers and enforcing penalties for illegal dumping.
Cross River State continues to battle flooding due to inadequate drainage, with residents appealing for government support. The environment commissioner assured that drainage clearance is ongoing and warned against illegal structures on waterways.
In Imo State, flood-prone neighborhoods are already seeing residents move out as water encroaches on buildings. NEMA officials are monitoring river levels and conducting public sensitisation.
Nasarawa residents face financial hurdles in relocating but are preparing to move to safer areas. Adamawa State has allocated N700 million to emergency management ahead of the rainy season.
Edo State is also on alert, with flood management agencies clearing drains and visiting vulnerable communities.
Environmental experts have criticized the insufficient use of ecological funds by state governments, calling for stronger disaster preparedness and community engagement to prevent recurrent flood disasters.