The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) has issued a high flood risk alert for 15 states across the country. The alert, which is designated NFA-2026-262, is based on forecasts of rising river levels and an increased risk of riverine flooding. The states affected by this alert are Imo, Cross River, Ebonyi, Benue, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Rivers, Edo, Kogi, Taraba, Delta, Bayelsa, Enugu, and Abia.
According to the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiHSA, Umar Mohammed, nine river stations are at risk and require close monitoring. Some of the key locations highlighted in the assessment include Obubra, Itigidi, and Epento along the Cross River. Mohammed has urged state governments, local government authorities, emergency management agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders to take immediate precautionary measures to mitigate the impact of possible flooding.
The NiHSA chief has advised residents in flood-prone communities to move people, livestock, and valuables to safer and higher ground where necessary. The assessment has identified significant populations and critical infrastructure exposed to flood risks across the affected areas. In Cross River State alone, 2,471 communities, 703 schools, 344 health facilities, 145 markets, 453 religious centres, and 854 hectares of farmland are within areas exposed to flood risks.
Mohammed has urged communities to activate local early-warning and emergency response systems while monitoring the agency’s flood advisories and river-level updates. He also advised residents to avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges, and fast-moving water, either on foot or in vehicles. Furthermore, he called on authorities and communities to pre-position relief materials, safe drinking water, water-treatment supplies, and first-aid materials in vulnerable areas.
Authorities have been urged to identify and prepare safe shelters for possible temporary evacuations. Residents have also been advised to clear blocked drainage channels and river outlets where it is safe to do so, while avoiding construction or habitation in vulnerable floodplain areas. Mohammed stressed that early action and compliance with official flood warnings are critical to reducing the potential loss of lives, property, and livelihoods.
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency has stated that it will continue monitoring hydrological conditions and river levels across the affected areas and issue further advisories when necessary. The agency's efforts aim to mitigate the impact of flooding and ensure the safety of communities in the affected states. Flood risk management remains a critical concern in Nigeria, given the country's vulnerability to climate-related disasters.
The high flood risk alert serves as a reminder for communities to be prepared and take proactive measures to minimize the impact of flooding. By heeding the warnings and taking necessary precautions, residents can reduce their exposure to flood risks and protect their lives, property, and livelihoods. The NiHSA's alert is a timely intervention to prevent potential flood-related disasters in the 15 states.
Key points
- NiHSA issues high flood risk alert for 15 states from September 19-25
- Nine river stations are at risk and require close monitoring
- Residents advised to move to safer grounds and avoid crossing flooded areas
