The Federal Government has issued a fresh flood alert affecting Niger states, and parts of Lagos, urging residents in flood-prone communities to evacuate to safer grounds ahead of anticipated heavy rainfall from July 31 to August 4, 2025.
The warning, released by the National Flood Early Warning Centre under the Federal Ministry of Environment, forecasts intense downpours likely to cause flooding in several areas. The alert, titled “Flood Prediction,” was signed by the Director of Erosion, Flood, and Coastal Zone Management Department, Usman Bokani.
According to the ministry, the flood threat is heightened by rising water levels in major rivers, including River Niger and River Kaduna, with possible spillover effects in both inland and coastal states.
In Niger State, four local government areas, Rijau, Sarkin Pawa, Suleja, and Mashegu, have been identified as high-risk zones. The state’s Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Yakubu Kolo, confirmed that public announcements had already been made on local radio stations, urging residents to begin evacuation.
Kolo said, “This alert is not new to us. We had earlier issued warnings affecting 15 LGAs, including Mokwa, Bida, Bosso, and Lavun. Our concern now is the rising water levels in the Niger, Kaduna, and Gurara rivers, which may flood roads and farmlands.”
He also listed several major roads that could be affected, including Mokwa–Gana Road and Kainji Road, and advised communities to remain vigilant and activate local evacuation plans.
Similarly , the government in Lagos State has also heightened its flood response as coastal areas brace for possible submersion. The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, noted that localities such as Ikorodu, Epe, Lekki, Ajegunle, and Victoria Island are under close watch due to their low elevation and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and lagoons.
Wahab said, “We have mobilised emergency teams and are actively informing the public through radio and television. Lagosians must take this warning seriously and avoid the false belief that urban areas are immune.”
The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), and other bodies have been placed on alert, while enforcement teams have been deployed to monitor drainage clearance and discourage indiscriminate waste disposal.
He warned that flood incidents often worsen due to blocked drainages and urged residents to desist from dumping refuse into canals and gutters.
The Federal Government emphasized the need for swift action from all stakeholders. “Relevant agencies must remain proactive, and communities should cooperate fully with emergency protocols,” the Environment Ministry’s statement added.
Both states have activated their flood response mechanisms and opened emergency lines for affected residents. The public is advised to stay tuned to official channels for timely updates and instructions.