The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) has warned of possible flooding in Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Benue, Adamawa, Niger, and Bayelsa States, following rising water levels along parts of the River Niger and River Benue.
At a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, NiHSA Director-General, Umar Muhammed, said current hydrological monitoring indicates a high risk of localised flooding in several riverine areas. He urged residents in flood-prone communities to remain alert and follow official advisories.
Muhammed also revealed that recent water quality checks showed contamination in some shallow wells due to floodwater intrusion, stressing the need for collaboration among government agencies, humanitarian partners, and local authorities to ensure access to safe drinking water.
He announced that NiHSA is implementing a Five-Year Strategic Action Plan focused on innovation, regional empowerment, and stakeholder engagement, all in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We are expanding real-time data collection and upgrading our early warning systems with satellite imagery and digital modelling to better predict and communicate flood risks,” Muhammed said.
According to Technical Adviser Stephen Jabo, while the rainy season is expected to end in most parts of Nigeria by November, high river levels could still trigger severe flooding in the coming weeks. He urged state governments to intensify community sensitisation, clear drainage channels, and prepare evacuation centres for at-risk residents.
NiHSA reaffirmed its commitment to a data-driven approach to safeguard lives, protect infrastructure, and strengthen national resilience against the impacts of climate change.
