Rising river levels are putting communities, critical infrastructure and agricultural assets across 15 states on heightened flood alert, with the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) warning of a high risk of riverine flooding between September 19 and 25.Â
The agency, in its national flood advisory issued recently, said the elevated river levels could trigger riverine flooding in communities located on floodplains during the seven-day period, placing additional pressure on state and local emergency-response systems.
The affected states are Imo, Cross River, Ebonyi, Benue, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Rivers, Edo, Kogi, Taraba, Delta, Bayelsa, Enugu and Abia.
NIHSA said nine river stations had been identified as being at risk and would require close monitoring as hydrological conditions evolve.
Among the locations identified are Obubra, Itigidi and Epento along the Cross River, where rising water levels could increase exposure for surrounding communities and economic assets.
Umar Mohammed, director-general of NIHSA, called on state and local government emergency management authorities, traditional rulers and community leaders to activate precautionary measures ahead of possible flooding.
He urged residents in flood-prone communities to move people, livestock and valuables to safer and higher ground where necessary, while activating local early-warning and response mechanisms.
Mohammed also advised communities to monitor NIHSA’s flood advisories and river-level updates as conditions change.
He warned residents against attempting to cross flooded roads, bridges or fast-moving water, either on foot or in vehicles, highlighting the potential danger as river levels rise.
The agency also urged authorities and communities to pre-position relief materials, safe drinking water, water-treatment supplies and first-aid materials, while identifying and preparing safe locations for possible temporary evacuation.
Beyond emergency response, NIHSA called for preventive action at the community level, including clearing blocked drainage channels and river outlets where it can be done safely.
It also advised against construction or habitation in vulnerable floodplain areas, pointing to the need for longer-term management of flood exposure alongside immediate emergency measures.
Mohammed said early action and compliance with official flood warnings would be critical to reducing potential losses of lives, property and livelihoods.
NIHSA said it would continue monitoring hydrological conditions and river levels across the affected areas and issue further updates as necessary.
