By Feyisola Adeyeha
The Lagos State Government has directed residents in low-lying and flood-prone communities to immediately relocate to higher ground following a fresh seven-day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
The alert, with reference NFA-2026-2022, affects Lagos and 14 other states.
In a statement issued on Sunday evening, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, said the government was treating the advisory with utmost seriousness.
He listed areas identified as vulnerable to flooding to include Eti-Osa, Lagos Island LGA, Oke-Ira Nla (Ajah), Kirikiri (Sea Port), Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B, among other riverine and low-lying communities.
Wahab urged residents not to disregard the warning or wait until floodwaters rise before taking precautionary measures.
“We are urging Lagosians, particularly those living in flood-prone and low-lying areas, not to take this warning lightly. When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” Wahab stated.
He explained that Lagos typically experiences a second phase of the rainy season from September, characterised by increased rainfall, rising water levels and tidal influences that could worsen flooding in vulnerable locations.
The Commissioner also placed communities along the Ogun River and other major waterways on high alert, particularly Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto, parts of Agboyi and other settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin, for the period September 19 to 25.
He advised residents living near rivers, lagoons, wetlands and drainage channels to remain vigilant, monitor official flood forecasts and be prepared to relocate temporarily when necessary.
According to NIHSA, rising river levels could result in flooding across vulnerable communities and affect critical facilities such as schools, healthcare centres, markets, farms and places of worship.
Wahab called on affected local governments, emergency agencies and community leaders to activate early-warning and response mechanisms, while ensuring that people, livestock and valuables are moved to safer locations where necessary.
He added that the state government would continue to monitor river levels, rainfall patterns and other hydrological developments in collaboration with relevant federal agencies, while sustaining the cleaning and maintenance of drainage infrastructure across the state.
The Commissioner appealed to residents to refrain from dumping refuse into drains and canals, noting that blocked waterways could worsen flooding.
He also cautioned residents against walking or driving through flooded roads and fast-moving water.
Wahab assured residents that the protection of lives and property remained the government’s priority and urged Lagosians to remain calm, vigilant and responsive to official advisories.
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