The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), has issued a high-alert flood warning for 27 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The warning predicts widespread inundation across over 700 communities in the coming two weeks, specifically between July 22 and August 5.
The affected states include Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, and FCT in the North-Central region; Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe in the North-East; Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers in the South-South; Lagos, Ogun, and Ondo in the South-West; Anambra, Ebonyi, and Imo in the South-East; and Jigawa, Kebbi, and Sokoto in the North-West.
The flood alert is based on fresh hydrological forecasts aligned with NIHSA’s 2025 Annual Flood Outlook. The agency expects severe flooding in 739 communities across 162 local government areas, with key cities like Lagos and Abuja on the watchlist. Over 100 major transportation routes are vulnerable, including the Okene-Lokoja-Abuja Road and Birnin Kebbi-Bunza Road.
Residents in low-lying or previously affected areas are advised to stay alert and prepare for possible evacuation. State governments and emergency response agencies are urged to activate disaster preparedness and community sensitization protocols. NIHSA encourages Nigerians to stay informed through its official flood dashboard and social media platforms.
The agency’s warning comes as a result of predicted heavy rainfall and water releases from dams, which are expected to exacerbate the flood situation. The government and residents are advised to take necessary precautions to mitigate the impact of the floods.
