Communities across 20 states in Nigeria have begun relocating following a new NiMet flood alert 2025 predicting heavy rainfall and possible flash floods in the coming months.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) in its July report listed Sokoto, Lagos, Edo, Benue, Yobe, Bayelsa, Jigawa, Delta, Cross River, Kaduna, Ondo, Adamawa, and Nasarawa among high-risk states. Residents in floodplains and low-lying communities have been urged to relocate, clear drainages, prepare emergency kits, and stay alert for evacuation orders.
The 9am News report shows that while the Federal Government has disbursed over N620 billion in ecological funds to state governments since 2012, communities still face repeated flood disasters due to poor preparedness and infrastructure gaps.
In Lagos, flash floods struck parts of the state earlier this week due to rising tidal levels from the Atlantic Ocean and Lagos Lagoon. The Commissioner for Environment, Tokunbo Wahab, appealed to residents not to dump refuse in drainage channels, while teams intensified the clearing of blocked drains in areas like Ajegunle, Meiran, Lagos Island, and Ikoyi.
Residents like Olumide Samuel in Lekki have moved families to safer areas. “Every year, Lagos floods. I’ve moved my family to my mum’s place to stay safe,” he told 9am News.
In Kaduna State, residents in communities like Kigo Road, Kurmin-Mashi, and Romi are taking precautions and relocating valuables. Some, like Joseph Audu, praised the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for its awareness campaigns and newly mapped Safe Haven Centres across LGAs.
Ondo State residents in flood-prone towns like Owo, Okitipupa, Ilaje, and Akure say they are afraid of a repeat of recent destructive floods. The Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, assured that the state’s emergency agency had begun awareness campaigns and was clearing waterways.
In Benue, some parents have already relocated their children to higher ground near Makurdi, as communities watch the River Benue’s rising levels. Theresa Albert, a resident at Rice Mill, said, “We’re always on alert and moving our kids out early.”
In Yobe State, parts of Damaturu experienced flash flooding earlier this week due to blocked drainage. Retired police officer Mohammed Suleiman blamed misplaced priorities, urging the state to invest more in drainage rather than flyovers. Contractors have since commenced clearing blocked drains.
Jigawa residents are on high alert, clearing drainage, preparing emergency kits, and relocating where possible. The state’s emergency agency has mapped flood-prone areas, constructed temporary embankments, and is supporting community self-help groups.
Delta State is deploying a multi-pronged approach. Commissioner for Environment Jamani Ejiro said the government is dredging rivers, clearing canals, and enforcing penalties against dumping waste in drainages. IDP camps are being prepared.
Cross River residents in Calabar lament repeated losses due to poor drainage. Commissioner for Environment Moses Osogi said drainages are being cleared and residents have been warned to move upland. He warned that structures on waterways will attract prosecution.
Imo State’s NEMA head, Nnamdi Igwe, confirmed some areas like Ose-Afia Market in Oguta LGA are already submerged. He said the agency has brand-new ambulances and relief items ready for emergencies.
In Nasarawa State, communities in Doma, Nasarawa, Toto, Awe, Lafia, and Obi LGAs are preparing to leave vulnerable areas despite financial constraints. Residents appealed for state support to relocate safely.
In Adamawa State, the government released N700 million for flood preparedness. Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Celina Laori, said sensitisation campaigns are ongoing in 15 LGAs.
Edo State residents in Anegbete, Opogbo, and Udo are bracing for flooding. The state’s Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency has cleared major drains and visited erosion sites.
Despite efforts, environmentalist Mayokun Iyaomolere told 9am News that states must do more. “Getting that much in ecological funds and still recording disasters is unacceptable. Residents too must take responsibility where the government is slow.”
As rainfall intensifies in the weeks ahead, communities are urged to remain vigilant, relocate where needed, and cooperate with emergency agencies to reduce risks.
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