The Lagos State Government has advised residents in flood-prone and low-lying communities to move to safer, elevated areas following a fresh seven-day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency, NiHSA.
The warning, which covers September 19 to 25, 2026, includes Lagos and 14 other states, with the state government urging residents to take preventive action rather than wait until floodwaters begin to rise.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, listed Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri Sea Port, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B among areas considered vulnerable to flooding.
Wahab also urged residents of riverine and low-lying communities, including Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto, parts of Agboyi and other settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin, to remain vigilant.
“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 said.
The commissioner said the government had stepped up surveillance of river levels, rainfall patterns and other hydrological conditions in vulnerable areas in partnership with relevant federal agencies.
He particularly cautioned communities located along the Ogun River and other major waterways, noting that heavy rainfall upstream and rising water levels in interconnected river systems could increase the risk of
flooding downstream in Lagos.
NiHSA, in its alert, warned that rising river levels could trigger flooding in vulnerable communities and disrupt critical facilities such as schools, healthcare centres, markets, farms and places of worship.
Wahab called on local government authorities, emergency management agencies, community leaders and residents to activate early warning and response systems, including the movement of people, livestock and valuables to safer locations where necessary.
He also advised residents living close to rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other water bodies to follow official flood forecasts and comply with evacuation instructions when issued.
The commissioner warned residents against walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges or areas with fast-moving water, urging those facing an imminent threat to make temporary relocation arrangements.
He said the state government would continue drainage maintenance, river-level surveillance and other measures aimed at reducing flood risks.
Wahab also appealed to residents to stop dumping refuse into drains, canals and waterways, stressing that such practices could worsen flooding.
He reiterated that safeguarding lives and property remained a priority for the government, urging Lagos residents to treat official flood forecasts as serious safety warnings and act promptly when necessary.
