The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA), has issued a stark flood risk warning for 29 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) between September 1 and 15, 2025. The alert identifies 107 local government areas (LGAs) and 631 communities as vulnerable to flooding during this period.
At-risk states include Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, FCT, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara.
NiHSA’s projection is based on real-time hydrometric monitoring, river-stage forecasts, and satellite flood mapping, aligning with the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO).
The agency warns of a range of flood threats—river over-banking, flash floods, and localized inundation, particularly in riverine and low-lying terrains. Levels of risk vary from moderate to very high.
- Disruption of critical transport infrastructure, including highways, roads, and bridges
- Threats to lives, livelihoods, agriculture, and public assets
- Elevated risk of water contamination and flood-related diseases.
NiHSA has called on all relevant bodies to take urgent and coordinated action, recommending:
- Federal and State Ministries, NEMA, and SEMA: Activate contingency plans, deploy response teams, and pre-position relief materials.
- Local Governments & Community Leaders: Intensify awareness efforts, identify evacuation routes, and establish shelters.
- Transport & Utility Operators: Secure infrastructures and ensure essential services continue.
- Residents & Communities: Move to higher ground as needed, avoid flooded roadways, and adhere strictly to official safety advice.
