20 Nigerian States on High Alert Over Imminent Flooding—Millions at Risk

Panic is spreading across Nigeria as residents in flood-prone communities across 20 states begin relocating in response to dire warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). In its latest July advisory, NiMet forecasted severe flooding driven by heavy rainfall expected over the coming months. The states most at risk include Lagos, Sokoto, Edo, Benue, Yobe, Bayelsa, Jigawa, Delta, Cross River, Kaduna, Ondo, Adamawa, and Nasarawa.

Despite the release of over ₦620 billion in ecological funds to state governments since 2012, national preparedness remains weak, with recurring flood disasters revealing gaps in disaster management. In Lagos, where flash floods recently hit, the government blamed rising sea levels and tides, while urging residents to stop dumping waste into drains. Officials mobilized drainage clearance crews across various flood-prone areas.

In Kaduna, residents have begun evacuating, moving their belongings to safer areas. Some are taking personal precautions like clearing gutters or elevating property. The state emergency agency confirmed the establishment of safe haven centres and ongoing dredging operations to mitigate the risk.

Similar fears grip residents of Ondo, Yobe, Imo, Benue, and Cross River, where many communities are already experiencing losses or have started relocating. In Ondo and Edo, residents have suffered extensive property damage in recent weeks, pushing them to seek higher ground. In Imo, areas like Umuguma and Nekede have become uninhabitable during downpours, prompting mass departures.

Governments across various states, including Jigawa, Adamawa, and Delta, say they are intensifying efforts—ranging from drainage works and public awareness campaigns to flood embankment construction and IDP camp preparation. Adamawa State, in particular, has released ₦700 million to bolster emergency response ahead of the rainy season.

However, critics argue these efforts remain reactive and insufficient. Environmental experts have called for a complete overhaul of the country’s flood response system, urging government and communities alike to prioritize long-term risk management, urban planning reforms, and proactive infrastructure investment.