The Federal Government has issued a nationwide flood alert, warning of heavy rainfall and potential flooding across 19 states and 76 locations from August 5 to 9, as Nigeria grapples with escalating climate challenges.
The alert, released by the National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre under the Ministry of Environment, follows devastating floods in Ogun and Gombe, and highlights risks to states including Lagos, Plateau, Anambra, and Delta.
Key areas at risk include parts of Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Benue, Kaduna, Kebbi, Kano, Niger, Yobe, and Zamfara, among others. The floods are expected to intensify due to continued rainfall and dam overflows.
Rising Toll and Widespread Impact
According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), at least 191 people have died in 2025 alone, with 94 missing and 134,000+ affected across 20 states and 47 LGAs. The worst-hit state is Niger, recording 163 fatalities, followed by Adamawa (26 deaths).
48,056 people displaced
239 injured
9,499 houses damaged
9,450 farmlands affected
Children and women are reportedly the most affected groups.
In 2024, floods impacted over 5 million people, displaced 1.2 million, and claimed 1,237 lives.
Ongoing Disasters Nationwide
In Ogun State, floodwaters submerged parts of Redemption City, trapping RCCG convention attendees and residents. Canoes and buses were used to evacuate people.
Gombe State reported four deaths across several LGAs with homes and farmlands damaged.
Lagos experienced flash floods that paralyzed transport and commerce. Viral footage showed residents wading through submerged streets in Ijede and Surulere.
In Delta, flooding hit Sapele and Oko, prompting the government to open six IDP camps.
Kebbi, Bauchi, Plateau, Imo, and Rivers states also suffered major damage, with homes, schools, markets, and farmlands washed away.
Government Response
The National Economic Council recently approved N3 billion each for all states and FCT for flood control, alongside additional allocations to key ministries and NEMA.
Temporary shelters, emergency committees, and sensitization campaigns are being activated in flood-prone states like Katsina, Bayelsa, Sokoto, and Kaduna, while some areas — including Edo, Benue, Nasarawa, and Kano — remain on high alert despite no major flooding yet.
Calls for Long-Term Action
Environmental experts have urged the government to declare a state of emergency in vulnerable zones, emphasizing infrastructure upgrades, improved urban planning, and community education as crucial to mitigating Nigeria’s annual flood crisis.
We can’t stop the rain, but we can reduce the damage,” said activist Dr. Fyneface Dumnamene.
As more rainfall is expected in the coming weeks, authorities are calling on residents to clear drainage systems and heed warnings to prevent further loss of lives and property.
