FG Issues Urgent Flood Alert for 10 States, Warns of Imminent Heavy Rainfall Impact

The Federal Ministry of Environment has issued an urgent flood alert for at least ten states, warning that prolonged heavy rainfall over the coming days could trigger flooding in vulnerable communities.

The advisory, released through the Ministry’s Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management Department via the National Flood Early Warning Centre (NFEWS), forecasts intense rainfall between April 13 and April 17, 2026. It cautions that low-lying and flood-prone areas face a high risk of overflow during this period.

States identified as most at risk include Adamawa, Enugu, Kaduna, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, and Taraba. Authorities also highlighted specific communities likely to be affected if rainfall exceeds expected levels.

In Adamawa State, Ganye and Gbalji are projected to face flooding, while Nsukka in Enugu State is also within the danger zone. In Kaduna State, Buruku, Kachia, Kaduna, and Kafanchan have been flagged as high-risk areas.

Other vulnerable locations include Ibaji in Kogi State; Bode-Sadu and Ilorin in Kwara State; and Chanchaga, Minna, and Sarkin Pawa in Niger State. In Osun State, communities such as Ilesa, Iragbiji, Oshogbo, and Otan Ayegbaju are also at risk.

In Oyo State, several parts of Ibadan—including Apata, Bodija, Challenge, Eleyele, Moniya, Odo-Ona, and Ojoo—have been identified due to their history of poor drainage and flooding during heavy rains. Bukuru in Plateau State and Serti in Taraba State were also listed among areas of concern.

The Ministry warned that potential flooding could disrupt livelihoods, damage infrastructure, and endanger lives if precautionary measures are not taken. Residents in affected communities are advised to clear drainage channels, avoid building along waterways, and prepare for possible evacuation.

State governments, emergency agencies, and local authorities have been urged to activate contingency plans and strengthen rapid response systems. The Ministry also called for sustained public awareness efforts to keep residents informed and responsive to safety directives.

Additionally, stakeholders were encouraged to collaborate and share feedback to improve coordination during the forecast period.

The advisory, endorsed by Usman Abdullahi Bokani, Director of the Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management Department, stressed that early preparedness remains critical in reducing the impact of flooding.

The latest warning highlights increasing concerns over seasonal flooding in Nigeria, as climate variability continues to intensify rainfall patterns and drive more frequent extreme weather events.