The Lagos State Government has advised residents living in flood-prone communities to temporarily move to safer, elevated locations following a fresh seven-day flood warning issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the advisory was necessary as rising river levels and increased rainfall could trigger flooding across vulnerable parts of the state.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina, Wahab identified Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B among areas requiring increased vigilance.
He also listed communities around major waterways, including Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto and parts of Agboyi, as locations where residents should remain particularly alert.
According to the commissioner, the latest warning covers Lagos and 14 other states, with the potential to disrupt schools, healthcare facilities, markets, farms and places of worship in affected communities.
Wahab urged residents not to wait for floodwaters to rise before taking precautionary measures.
“When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” he said.
He explained that Lagos typically enters another period of intensified rainfall from September, when heavier precipitation, rising water levels and tidal influences can increase flood risks.
Residents living close to rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other water bodies were advised to monitor official forecasts and prepare for temporary relocation when necessary.
The commissioner particularly warned communities along the Ogun River and other major waterways that rainfall upstream could result in rising water levels downstream. Residents in areas downstream of Isheri Olofin were advised to remain on heightened alert between September 19 and 25.
Wahab also directed local governments, emergency management agencies, community leaders and residents to strengthen early-warning and emergency response arrangements.
He urged households in vulnerable locations to move people, livestock and valuable belongings to safer areas where necessary.
The state government, he said, would continue working with relevant federal agencies to monitor rainfall patterns, river levels and other hydrological developments, while maintaining drainage infrastructure across the state.
Wahab further warned residents against dumping waste into drains, canals and waterways, noting that blocked drainage channels could worsen flooding.
He also advised motorists and pedestrians to avoid flooded roads, bridges and fast-moving water, while urging residents to remain calm and responsive to official safety advisories.
