NiHSA Alerts 15 States To High Flood Risk

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) has issued a high flood risk alert for 15 states from Sept. 19 to Sept. 25.

The alert, designated NFA-2026-262, is based on forecasts of rising river levels and increased risk of riverine flooding across the affected areas.

The affected states are Imo, Cross River, Ebonyi, Benue, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Rivers, Edo, Kogi, Taraba, Delta, Bayelsa, Enugu and Abia.

Mr Umar Mohammed, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiHSA, in a statement on Saturday said nine river stations were at risk and required close monitoring.

He listed Obubra, Itigidi and Epento on the Cross River among the key locations identified in the assessment.

Mohammed urged state governments, local government councils, emergency management authorities, traditional and community leaders to take immediate precautionary measures.

He also advised residents in flood-prone communities to move people, livestock and valuables to safer and higher ground where necessary.

According to the assessment, significant populations and critical infrastructure are exposed to flood risks across the affected areas.