By Stephen Simon
The Federal Government has issued a fresh flood alert to 17 states, warning residents in vulnerable communities to prepare for possible flooding following rising water levels in major rivers across the country. The advisory was issued by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), which said several river monitoring stations had exceeded critical thresholds.
NIHSA said the seven-day advisory covers the period between July 21 and July 27, noting that communities located along river channels and floodplains face a medium risk of flooding if heavy rainfall persists. The agency urged residents in high-risk areas to remain vigilant and comply with directives from emergency management authorities.
The affected states include Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara. According to NIHSA, river levels at key monitoring stations have risen above warning levels, increasing the likelihood of localized flooding.
Director-General of NIHSA, Umar Mohammed, said the alert followed continuous hydrological monitoring, which showed that several rivers had reached levels capable of causing overflow into nearby communities. He urged state governments to activate emergency response plans and intensify public awareness campaigns.
The agency also advised residents living in flood-prone areas to clear drainage channels, safeguard valuables and relocate where necessary, while farmers were encouraged to take precautionary measures to minimize losses to crops and livestock.
The warning comes amid heavy rainfall in parts of the country, with flooding already reported in several communities, leading to the destruction of homes, roads and farmlands, and displacing hundreds of residents in some areas. Experts have repeatedly called for improved drainage infrastructure and stricter compliance with environmental regulations to reduce the impact of recurring floods.
NIHSA said it would continue monitoring river levels nationwide and provide regular updates, urging all stakeholders to take proactive measures to protect lives and property as the peak of the rainy season approaches.
