DIPLOMAN TIMES

The Lagos State Government has directed residents in identified flood-prone and low-lying communities to relocate to higher ground following a new seven-day flood alert from the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency affecting Lagos and other states.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab said the state government was intensifying monitoring after NiHSA issued flood advisory NFA-2026-2022. Vulnerable locations identified in the statement include parts of Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B.

The advisory also covers communities along waterways and downstream areas including Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto, parts of Agboyi and settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin. Residents near rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other water bodies were urged to monitor official forecasts and prepare for temporary relocation where flooding becomes imminent.

Wahab said the state's response reflects the seasonal increase in rainfall, river levels and tidal influences associated with the second phase of the rainy season. He specifically warned communities along the Ogun River and other connected waterways that upstream rainfall and river levels could affect downstream conditions in Lagos.

According to the NiHSA advisory cited by the state, rising river levels could affect vulnerable communities and critical facilities including schools, healthcare centres, markets, farms and places of worship. The commissioner urged local governments, emergency agencies, community leaders and residents to activate early-warning and response arrangements and move people, livestock and valuable possessions to safer locations when necessary.

The Lagos State Government said it would continue monitoring rainfall patterns and river levels with relevant federal agencies while sustaining drainage cleaning, maintenance and monitoring. Residents were also warned against dumping refuse in drainage channels and against walking or driving through floodwaters. The directive covers the period of the cited seven-day alert, with further updates expected as hydrological conditions evolve.