FG issues flood alert for 17 states

Nigeria's Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued a seven-day flood advisory, warning of a medium flood risk across 17 states between July 21 and July 27. The alert stems from rising water levels at key river monitoring stations, which heighten the probability of localized flooding along river channels and floodplains.

NIHSA Director-General Umar Mohammed disclosed this in the National Flood Advisory (Alert No. NFA-2026-200), identifying Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara as the affected states. Mohammed noted that river levels at Saminaka on the Karam River, Waya Dam site on the Waya River, and Amber on the Amber River have surpassed watch and warning thresholds. Sixteen gauging stations nationwide are recording elevated river levels, placing nearby communities at risk.

Mohammed urged state governments, local authorities, and residents in flood-prone areas to implement immediate precautionary measures. Bauchi state faces the highest exposure, with 1,841 communities, 145 schools, 101 health facilities, and eight markets identified as vulnerable. Vulnerable communities and public facilities were also identified in Edo, Imo, Kaduna, Plateau, and Benue states.

The NIHSA boss called for the activation of emergency response plans by the National Emergency Management Agency, State Emergency Management Agencies, local governments, and community leaders. Recommendations include relocating residents, livestock, and valuables from floodplains to safer locations and pre-positioning essential supplies like food, medical items, and water treatment materials. Community mobilization through early warning volunteers and local communication channels is also advised for timely dissemination of alerts. Residents are cautioned against traversing flooded roads, bridges, and waterways, and authorities are advised to clear blocked drains and waterways to improve water flow.

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river levels at Saminaka on the Karam River, Waya Dam site on the Waya River and Amber on the Amber River had exceeded watch and warning thresholds.