State governments across Nigeria have intensified their preventive measures in response to the Federal Government’s release of the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO), which forecasts widespread flooding in various regions of the country. The outlook, presented in Abuja by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA), identifies Lagos, Bayelsa, Delta, Adamawa, Kebbi, and 28 other states as areas at risk, with thousands of communities likely to be affected to varying degrees. During the public presentation, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, emphasized the importance of early warning systems in mitigating the devastating effects of floods. He highlighted that timely information can save lives, protect livelihoods, and safeguard infrastructure.
According to the report, 14,118 communities in 266 local government areas across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory are categorized as high flood-risk zones. Additionally, 15,597 communities in 405 local government areas are classified under moderate risk, while 923 communities in 77 local government areas are expected to face low flood incidents. The AFO also warns of potential flash and urban flooding in major cities such as Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan, Kano, and Port Harcourt, attributing this risk to high rainfall intensity, poor drainage systems, and inadequate urban planning. Coastal and riverine flooding is anticipated in Bayelsa, Delta, Lagos, Rivers, and Ogun states due to rising sea levels and tidal surges.
Utsev stressed that the flood outlook is not merely a scientific document but a call to action for all levels of government and citizens. He urged state governments to incorporate flood risk considerations into land-use planning, enhance drainage infrastructure, and ensure that vulnerable communities are adequately prepared. He also noted ongoing collaboration between his ministry and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to integrate weather and hydrological data for more reliable forecasts that can assist farmers, disaster managers, and urban planners. While acknowledging improvements in forecasting, the minister cautioned that predictions alone would not suffice without concrete actions at the grassroots level.
In light of these warnings, state governments have begun implementing various preventive and response strategies to mitigate the anticipated impact of flooding. In Sokoto State, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has initiated a comprehensive preparedness plan. The Director of Relief and Rehabilitation, Alhaji Mustapha Umar, reported that the agency has commenced advocacy visits and stakeholder engagements to ensure coordinated response efforts. Assessments are being conducted across local government areas to identify vulnerable communities, and widespread sensitization campaigns are underway to educate residents about flood risks and safety measures. Flood-prone areas are being mapped, and evacuation plans along with temporary camps for displaced persons are being developed.
In Benue State, SEMA has adopted a proactive approach, moving away from its previous reactive stance. The agency has launched radio jingles and public enlightenment campaigns to raise awareness among residents and has opened toll-free lines to facilitate emergency communication. Officials emphasized the focus on early preparedness and rapid response, with the agency on standby to mitigate potential damage. Similarly, Kano State has intensified its efforts by flagging off an urban drainage master plan aimed at improving water flow and preventing flooding. The state’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has also ramped up annual drainage clearance exercises to remove waste obstructing waterways. Authorities are engaging communities in flood-prone areas, urging residents to cooperate with government initiatives and adopt preventive measures.
Kebbi State has reactivated its disaster response teams and initiated awareness campaigns in vulnerable communities. Officials have arranged logistics for potential evacuations and stockpiled relief materials, including food and household items, in strategic locations. The state is collaborating closely with local government authorities and community leaders to ensure effective dissemination of information and timely responses. In Kogi State, preparations are underway following directives from Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. Plans have been finalized to establish Emergency Operations Centres to coordinate disaster responses across the state. Authorities are mapping vulnerable communities, particularly in flood-prone local government areas, and strengthening collaboration among key ministries, including health, agriculture, water resources, and information.
Adamawa State has intensified its sensitization efforts, particularly in riverine communities. The State Emergency Management Agency has advised residents living along riverbanks to relocate to higher ground and urged urban dwellers to clear drainage systems and avoid dumping waste in waterways. Officials have recommended that residents take precautionary measures, such as safeguarding food supplies and property ahead of the rainy season. In Kwara State, SEMA has initiated awareness campaigns and stakeholder engagements, including distributing flyers and airing radio jingles. Plans are also underway to visit flood-prone communities to educate residents on preventive measures and emergency responses. The agency has submitted its preparedness proposal to the state government for approval, with full implementation expected to commence soon.
The Edo State Emergency Management Agency, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, has embarked on large-scale clearing of drainage systems to ensure the free flow of water. The state has also renovated internally displaced persons camps and prepared makeshift shelters to accommodate potential victims while continuing sensitization campaigns in high-risk communities. In Niger State, officials are focusing on flash flooding in major towns, including Minna, Bida, Mokwa, and Suleja. The State Emergency Management Agency has launched extensive sensitization campaigns through traditional rulers, local councils, and community volunteers. Authorities have identified relocation sites as contingency plans and are using radio programs and grassroots engagement to raise awareness.
At the federal level, the government reiterated its commitment to enhancing flood preparedness and response mechanisms. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented at the event by the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, called for collective action among all stakeholders. The Director-General of NiHSA, Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, announced that the agency has upgraded its flood dashboard into a real-time decision-support system capable of visualizing flood scenarios and their potential impacts. He added that a dedicated mobile application has been introduced to improve accessibility and dissemination of flood alerts, with trained personnel on standby to provide support. Similarly, the Director-General of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, noted that technological advancements have improved the accuracy of weather predictions, enabling better planning and mitigation strategies. Despite these advancements, experts warn that the success of flood mitigation efforts will largely depend on how effectively early warnings are translated into concrete actions at the community level. They emphasized the need for sustained public awareness, proper waste management, strict enforcement of urban planning regulations, and continuous investment in infrastructure.
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