Lagos issues seven-day flood warning, lists areas affected

The Lagos State Government has advised residents in low-lying and coastal communities to relocate to higher ground following a fresh seven-day flood warning issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA).

The advisory, covering September 19 to 25, follows NiHSA flood alert NFA-2026-2022, which affects Lagos and 14 other states.

Authorities warned that rising river levels and renewed heavy rainfall could inundate vulnerable neighborhoods and disrupt critical infrastructure, including schools, health centers, and markets.

In a statement signed by Kunle Adeshina, Director of Public Affairs for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, the government said it has intensified surveillance across high-risk locations and urged residents to move before floodwaters rise.

Specific areas identified as vulnerable include Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri near the seaport, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty, and Jetty Terminal B.

The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, noted that September marks the start of Lagos’s second rainy season peak, where increased rainfall, upstream river flow, and tidal influences combine to heighten flood risks.

He called for extra vigilance in communities along the Ogun River and downstream waterways, including Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto, and parts of Agboyi.

“When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” Wahab said, advising residents to remain on higher ground until the peak period passes.

Local government officials, emergency response agencies, and community leaders have been directed to activate early-warning systems and coordinate response measures across affected areas.