The Lagos State Government has urged residents living in flood-prone and waterfront communities to temporarily relocate to higher ground as a fresh seven-day flood alert raises concerns about rising river levels and renewed rainfall across the state.
The directive follows a flood warning issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), covering Lagos and 14 other states.
The warning indicates that vulnerable communities could face flooding capable of disrupting schools, healthcare facilities, markets, farms and places of worship.
Lagos Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab said residents should act before floodwaters become dangerous rather than wait for flooding to occur.
“When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” Wahab said in a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina.
Eti-Osa, Kirikiri and waterfront communities identified
The state government identified several locations requiring particular vigilance, including parts of Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B.
The warning also extends to communities around lagoons, rivers, wetlands, drainage channels and other waterways, where rising water levels can quickly increase flood exposure.
Wahab said Lagos typically enters another intense phase of its rainy season around September, when heavier rainfall can coincide with rising river levels and tidal influences.
Residents in coastal and low-lying communities have therefore been advised to monitor official forecasts and prepare to leave temporarily if flooding becomes imminent.
Ogun River communities also on alert
The state government has separately highlighted communities along the Ogun River and other major waterways because rainfall upstream can increase water levels downstream.
Among the areas specifically mentioned are Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto and parts of Agboyi.
Residents in those communities and other settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin were advised to remain particularly vigilant between September 19 and September 25.
The warning is significant because flooding in downstream communities can occur even when rainfall at the affected location itself is limited, as water levels rise following rainfall further upstream.
Government steps up monitoring and drainage maintenance
Wahab said the Lagos government had increased monitoring of riverine, low-lying and other flood-prone communities in response to the latest hydrological outlook.
The state will continue working with relevant federal agencies to monitor rainfall patterns, river levels and other developments that could affect flood risks.
Routine cleaning and maintenance of drainage infrastructure will also continue, according to the commissioner.
Residents were urged not to dump refuse in drains, canals or waterways, as blocked drainage systems can restrict the movement of stormwater and worsen flooding.
Residents warned against driving through floodwater
The government also cautioned residents against attempting to walk or drive through flooded roads, bridges or fast-moving water.
Communities have been encouraged to activate local early-warning and emergency-response arrangements, with local governments, emergency agencies and community leaders expected to work alongside residents.
Where relocation becomes necessary, Wahab advised households to move people, livestock and valuable belongings to safer areas before conditions deteriorate.
The state government said it would continue issuing updates as the flood situation develops and urged residents to remain vigilant and follow official safety advisories.
