The Lagos State Government has issued a directive for residents living in low-lying and flood-prone communities to relocate to higher ground. This decision comes after the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) issued a fresh seven-day flood alert. The alert affects Lagos and 14 other states, with several areas in Lagos identified as vulnerable. These areas include Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty, and Jetty Terminal B.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, emphasized the government's commitment to treating the NiHSA flood advisory with utmost seriousness. The government has intensified monitoring across the identified locations and other riverine, low-lying, and flood-prone communities. Residents are urged not to wait until floodwaters rise before taking action. Early preparation and temporary relocation can prevent loss of lives and property.
Wahab listed several communities that should remain on high alert between September 19 and 25. These communities include Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto, and parts of Agboyi. Other settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin are also at risk. The commissioner advised residents in these areas to move to higher ground and remain there until the peak of the resurgent rainy season has passed.
The NiHSA report warns that rising river levels could cause flooding in vulnerable communities, affecting critical facilities such as schools, healthcare centers, markets, farms, and places of worship. The report also notes that rainfall intensity and rising water levels in connected river systems could affect downstream communities in Lagos. Residents living near rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels, and other water bodies are advised to monitor official flood forecasts.
Wahab called on affected local governments, emergency management agencies, community leaders, and residents to activate early-warning and response mechanisms. He urged them to move people, livestock, and valuable possessions to safer locations where necessary. The state government will continue to monitor river levels, rainfall patterns, and other hydrological developments in collaboration with relevant federal agencies.
The commissioner appealed to residents to support the government's flood mitigation efforts by refraining from dumping refuse in drains, canals, and waterways. Blocked drainage channels can worsen flooding and delay the recession of floodwaters. Residents are also cautioned against walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges, and fast-moving water. Those in vulnerable areas are advised to make arrangements for temporary relocation whenever official warnings indicate an imminent threat.
According to reports, more than 8,000 communities and 4,500 schools across 15 states are at risk of flooding between September 19 and 25. The states most likely to be affected include Imo, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Benue, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Enugu, Bayelsa, Kogi, Abia, Taraba, Rivers, and Lagos. The government has assured residents that it will continue to deploy measures to reduce flood risks and provide timely updates as the situation evolves.
Key points
- The Lagos State Government has directed residents in flood-prone communities to relocate to higher ground following a seven-day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency.
- The alert affects Lagos and 14 other states, with several areas in Lagos identified as vulnerable.
- More than 8,000 communities and 4,500 schools across 15 states are at risk of flooding between September 19 and 25.
