FG Issues Flood Alert for Seven States

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, has issued a flood alert for seven states, citing high water levels along parts of the River Niger and River Benue.

The agency named Kogi, Anambra, and Delta states as facing the possibility of localised flooding, and also predicted potential flooding in Benue, Adamawa, Niger, and Bayelsa states.

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiHSA, Umar Muhammed, disclosed this at a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday.

“At the moment, our hydrological monitoring shows high water levels along parts of the Niger and Benue Rivers, with the possibility of localised flooding in Kogi, Anambra, and Delta states. We advise residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow official advisories,” Muhammed said.

The agency also raised an alarm over water contamination, a common consequence of flooding. “Our recent water quality assessment during flood evaluation exercises revealed contamination in some shallow wells caused by floodwater intrusion. We call for stronger collaboration among relevant ministries, humanitarian partners, and local authorities to ensure the provision of safe drinking water to affected communities.”

Also speaking, the Technical Adviser to the DG of NiHSA, Stephen Jabo, provided further context on the high-risk states. He explained that although the rainy season is expected to end in most parts of the country by November, severe flooding may still occur in the coming weeks.

Jabo cautioned that communities situated along these riverbanks are vulnerable to riverine flooding, and urged state governments to intensify sensitisation efforts.

“What states can do for those communities located along the riverbanks of Rivers Niger and Benue is to sensitise them to remain on high alert, move to higher ground, and be aware of the locations of designated flood camps. In the event of flooding, they should be ready for evacuation,” he said.

He also urged residents not to walk or swim through floodwaters and called for the clearing of drainage systems to ensure the free flow of water and reduce flood impact.