The Lagos State Government has advised residents in flood-prone communities to temporarily relocate to higher ground following a fresh seven-day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, gave the warning in a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina, in Lagos.
Wahab said the alert covered Lagos and 14 other states, warning that rising river levels could trigger flooding in vulnerable communities and affect schools, healthcare facilities, markets, farms and places of worship.
He identified vulnerable locations in Lagos as Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B, among others.
The commissioner 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,” Wahab said.
He said the state government had intensified monitoring of riverine, low-lying and other flood-prone communities as the state entered the second phase of the rainy season.
According to him, the period is typically characterized by increased rainfall, rising water levels and tidal influences, heightening the risk of flooding.
Wahab urged residents living near rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other waterways to remain vigilant and comply with official safety advisories.
He specifically warned communities along the Ogun River and other major waterways, including Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto and parts of Agboyi.
He said residents in those areas and other settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin should remain on high alert from Sept. 19 to Sept. 25.
The commissioner also advised residents of coastal and waterfront communities to monitor official flood forecasts and prepare for temporary relocation if flooding became imminent.
He called on local governments, emergency management agencies, community leaders and residents to activate early-warning and emergency response mechanisms.
Wahab urged residents to move people, livestock and valuable belongings to safer locations where necessary, stressing that lives should take priority over property.
He said the state government would continue to monitor river levels, rainfall patterns and other hydrological developments in collaboration with relevant federal agencies.
He added that routine cleaning, maintenance and monitoring of drainage infrastructure would continue across the state.
Wahab also warned residents against dumping refuse into drains, canals and waterways, noting that blocked drainage channels could worsen flooding and expose communities to greater risks.
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He cautioned residents against walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-moving water.
The commissioner assured residents that the government would continue implementing measures to reduce flood risks and provide timely updates as the situation developed.
He urged Lagos residents to remain calm, vigilant and responsive to official flood advisories.
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