NiHSA Warns Of High Flood Risk In 27 States

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) has warned of a rising flood threat across the country, identifying 27 states as being at high risk of flooding between July 30 and August 5, 2026.

Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiHSA, Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, who issued the warning in a statement on Thursday, said the latest hydrological forecast showed rising river levels capable of triggering significant riverine flooding in vulnerable communities if urgent preventive measures are not taken.

Mohammed disclosed that 53 key river monitoring stations are currently at risk, with critical locations including Katsina Ala on the Katsina Ala River, Itoikin on the Aye River and Onitsha on the River Niger under close observation.

He said states expected to experience significant impacts include Niger, Kaduna, Kwara, Delta, Kogi and Edo, among 21 other affected states, warning that the anticipated flooding could affect communities, schools, healthcare facilities, markets, places of worship and farmlands.

The NiHSA boss called on state governments, local government authorities, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), traditional institutions and community leaders to immediately activate emergency preparedness and response measures.

He also urged residents of flood-prone communities to relocate to safer, higher ground where necessary, monitor NiHSA’s flood advisories regularly, pre-position relief materials and emergency supplies, prepare evacuation shelters and mobilise community early warning volunteers.

Mohammed further advised Nigerians to avoid crossing flooded roads or fast-flowing rivers and to clear drainage channels to minimise the impact of flooding.

He stressed that collective preparedness, early warning and timely action remain the most effective measures for reducing the devastating effects of floods, urging all Nigerians to heed official advisories and cooperate with emergency response authorities.