Following fresh warnings by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), residents in flood-prone areas across 20 states are urgently relocating to avoid imminent flood disasters.
In its latest July 2025 flood forecast, NiMet listed Sokoto, Lagos, Edo, Benue, Yobe, Bayelsa, Jigawa, Delta, Cross River, Kaduna, Ondo, Adamawa, and Nasarawa among states likely to experience flash floods and severe rainfall in the coming months.
The agency urged citizens in vulnerable zones to relocate when necessary, clear drainage systems, prepare emergency kits, disconnect electrical and gas systems during storms, and spread flood awareness in their communities.
Despite over ₦620bn in ecological funds disbursed to states since 2012, subnational responses remain underwhelming, making annual flood emergencies a recurring crisis in Nigeria.
Lagos Flood Update: State Government Mobilises Response Teams
This week, parts of Lagos experienced flash floods, attributed to high tidal surges from the Atlantic Ocean and the Lagos Lagoon. Environment Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab confirmed on social media that response teams are working to clear blocked drains and monitor flood levels across areas including Ajegunle, Meiran, Lagos Island, Amuwo Odofin, and Ikoyi-Obalende.
However, residents like Olumide Samuel from Lekki are not taking chances. “Every year, Lagos comes under heavy flooding… I’ve moved my family to stay with my mum,” he said.
Kaduna, Ondo, and Yobe: Residents Prepare for Worst
In Kaduna, several residents have started relocating valuables, with many heading to higher ground or safer neighborhoods. State authorities confirmed safe haven centres have been established, and dredging of River Kaduna is underway.
In Ondo, past flooding has devastated LGAs such as Owo, Okitipupa, and Ese Odo, prompting locals like Mrs. Felicia Oke and Mr. Ayo Adunola to seek relocation. The Deputy Governor affirmed that environmental sanitation campaigns are ongoing across all 18 LGAs.
Yobe State residents in Damaturu are grappling with flooding exacerbated by poor drainage. Contractor Wali Abubakar said drainage clearing has begun, urging residents to cooperate and avoid blocking waterways.
Benue, Jigawa, and Delta States Launch Flood Prevention Measures
In Benue, residents along the River Benue are relocating children and valuables. The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) said flood-prevention committees are meeting regularly and have launched public sensitisation campaigns.
Jigawa State, frequently hit by seasonal floods, has begun community-level sensitisation, drainage clearing, and embankment construction. Executive Secretary Hannafi Yakubu confirmed the identification of flood-prone zones and ongoing support for community-led prevention efforts.
Delta State’s Environment Commissioner Jamani Ejiro announced a multi-pronged approach, including stormwater drainage projects, river dredging, and the creation of IDP camps for displaced residents. Strict penalties now apply to anyone caught dumping refuse into waterways.
Cross River, Imo, and Edo Residents Brace for Impact
Flooding remains a persistent problem in Calabar. Residents like Mfoniso Udom and Nkoyo Eso expressed concern over property damage, urging the government to take more concrete action. Commissioner Moses Osogi confirmed that drain clearing is underway, with warnings issued to vacate flood-prone areas.
In Imo State, flood concerns are rising in areas like Nekede and Umuguma. According to NEMA Head Nnamdi Igwe, parts of Ose-Afia Market are already submerged. The agency is conducting road walks and sensitisation programmes, while emergency ambulances are stocked and ready.
Edo State residents, including those in Anegbete, Opogbo, and Udochi, are considering temporary or permanent relocation. Flood management authorities led by Ahmed Momoh have visited affected communities and cleared drains in Auchi, Jattu, and Etsako West.
Nasarawa and Adamawa: Emergency Agencies on Alert
In Nasarawa, residents in LGAs such as Doma, Awe, and Lafia are planning to relocate following alerts from NASEMA. However, many lament the lack of funds to move. Residents are calling on the state government for emergency support.
In contrast, Adamawa State has allocated ₦700 million to its emergency response. Executive Secretary Dr. Celina Laori confirmed that warehouses are stocked, and awareness campaigns have reached 15 LGAs to ensure residents act before it’s too late.
Expert Calls for Community-Led Disaster Planning
Environmentalist Mayokun Iyaomolere has criticised the underwhelming response of many state governments despite receiving billions in ecological funds.
“The governments are trying, but it’s not enough. Communities in flood-prone areas must take responsibility. Waiting for the government alone is no longer an option,” he said, calling for the creation of emergency shelters, disaster planning, and stronger risk management systems.
Conclusion
As Nigeria faces another season of flood emergencies, the combination of government-led and community-driven strategies will be vital to minimise loss of life and property. With over 20 states on high alert, now is the time for urgent action — not just warnings.
