By Oloye Ray
As heavy rains continue across Nigeria, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has sounded a fresh warning over the risk of riverine flooding in parts of Adamawa, Lagos and Borno states, urging residents in vulnerable communities to take immediate precautionary measures.
The warning, contained in the agency’s National Flood Advisory (Alert No. NFA-2026-183) released on Thursday, covers the period between July 2 and July 8, 2026. According to NIHSA, rising river water levels are increasing the likelihood of flooding across several floodplain communities, with thousands of people and critical infrastructure potentially in harm’s way.
The agency identified Adamawa, Lagos and Borno as the states facing the highest flood risk during the forecast period, calling on residents, emergency responders and state governments to act before the situation worsens.
In Adamawa State, the threat is particularly pronounced in Numan and Lamurde Local Government Areas. NIHSA estimates that about 147 communities could be affected if rivers overflow their banks.
Beyond homes and farmlands, the agency warned that vital public facilities are also at risk. At least 49 schools, 40 health facilities, six markets and 17 religious centres could be impacted by floodwaters, disrupting education, healthcare delivery, commerce and worship.
For many families living along the River Benue floodplain, the warning is a familiar reminder of the devastating floods experienced in previous years. Farmers worry about losing crops just as they begin to mature, while parents fear disruptions to their children’s education if schools become inaccessible.
Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos, is also facing growing concerns despite its urban landscape. NIHSA listed several densely populated local government areas as vulnerable, including Agege, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Amuwo-Odofin, Eti-Osa, Ikeja, Ikorodu and Kosofe.
According to the advisory, about 26 communities could experience flooding, with nine schools, eight health facilities and six markets likely to be affected.
In a city where daily economic activities depend heavily on smooth transportation, even moderate flooding can lead to severe traffic congestion, business disruptions and displacement of residents. Low-lying neighbourhoods and communities with poor drainage systems are expected to face heightened challenges if rainfall intensifies during the forecast period.
The greatest concern, however, lies in Borno State, where NIHSA described the potential exposure as particularly severe. The agency identified Gubio and Mobbar Local Government Areas as high-risk locations, with an estimated 680 communities facing possible flooding.
Essential public infrastructure in the affected areas is also under threat. The advisory indicates that eight schools, six health facilities, five markets and 21 religious centres could be affected if water levels continue to rise.
For communities already grappling with years of humanitarian challenges, flooding could further strain access to healthcare, education, food supplies and shelter.
According to NIHSA, the current situation is being driven by rising river levels, which continue to place pressure on flood-prone areas across the country. The agency stressed that early action remains the most effective way to reduce the impact of flooding.
Residents living in vulnerable communities have been advised to relocate family members, livestock and valuable belongings to safer, higher ground before floodwaters arrive. Local authorities and emergency management agencies have also been urged to intensify public awareness campaigns, monitor water levels closely and prepare emergency response teams.
Experts have consistently maintained that timely evacuation and strict adherence to official flood advisories save lives and reduce property losses during the rainy season.
As rainfall continues across many parts of Nigeria, NIHSA says it will sustain close monitoring of rivers and hydrological stations nationwide, providing regular updates to help communities make informed decisions.
For residents in the affected states, the latest advisory is more than a weather forecast—it is a call to prepare early, remain vigilant and prioritise safety before rising waters turn into another humanitarian disaster.
