As Nigeria braces for the upcoming rainy season, government entities across 30 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, are taking proactive measures to mitigate the anticipated flooding expected to impact at least 1,249 communities spread over 176 local government areas.
These measures involve public awareness campaigns, dredging of waterways, and relocating communities in vulnerable riverbank and floodplain areas in preparation for the expected heavy flooding from April to November.
During the launch of the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, highlighted the urgency of the situation. “Flooding remains one of the devastating natural disasters in Nigeria, with climate change accelerating its frequency and severity,” he noted.
Utsev indicated that certain states, notably Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross-River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Gombe, Imo, and Jigawa, are at high risk of flooding. Other vulnerable states include Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Zamfara, and the FCT.
Emphasizing the severity of the situation, the minister specifically warned that coastal and riverine areas—such as Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Lagos, Ogun, Rivers, and Ondo—are likely to be particularly hard-hit due to rising sea levels and tidal surges, which could adversely affect fishing activities, wildlife habitats, and river navigation.
“The 2025 Annual Flood Outlook shows that 1,249 communities in 176 Local Government Areas in 30 States and FCT fall within the High Flood Risk Areas, while 2,187 communities in 293 LGAs in 36 states of the federation and the FCT fall within the Moderate Flood Risk Areas,” Utsev elaborated.
He also highlighted that anticipated flash and urban flooding in major cities can be attributed to high rainfall intensities, inadequate management of drainage systems, and a lack of robust flood resilience infrastructure. Furthermore, he asserted, “Nevertheless, the flood, unlike other natural disasters, can be contained with proper planning and provision of necessary infrastructure.”
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Richard Pheelangwah, echoed the critical need for early response from all stakeholders, stating, “This outlook isn’t just about numbers; it’s about protecting lives and livelihoods.”
Umar Mohammed, the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NIHSA, stressed the innovative shifts in this year’s flood forecasting. “We are transforming flood data into real-time decisions and impactful resilience-building,” he said, indicating that the enhanced methodology stems from continuous feedback and collaboration across agencies.
In response to the alarming forecast, the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency is already alerting residents in flood-prone areas to prepare for potential inundation starting in April. Uche Okalawan, the agency’s Deputy Publicity Secretary, reported that local authorities are actively engaged in clearing blocked drainages and relocating structures that obstruct water flow.
Kwara State’s government is expanding river courses in flood-affected areas and advising citizens to steer clear of waste disposal in waterways. Commissioner for Environment Hajia Nafisat Buge stated, “The state government has begun the expansion of Asa River… to allow free flow of water during the rainy season.”
In Ogun State, Environment Commissioner Ola Oresanya emphasized awareness initiatives among local governments regarding their communities’ flood risks while undertaking dredging efforts on the Ogun River to enhance its carrying capacity. He noted, “We have issued our flood alert… and we are also domesticating this with our local governments.”
Efforts in Gombe State have been focused on timely maintenance of drainage systems to prevent last year’s flood recurrence. Amos Fabulous from the state’s Ministry of Water, Environment, and Forest Resources highlighted a consistent de-silting strategy as vital to their success.
Delta State’s government has also initiated drainage clearance and public sensitization ahead of the rains. Environment Commissioner Mr. Jamani Ejiro assured, “We are on top of the situation.”
Similarly, Nasarawa State is taking precautions by educating residents on the dangers of flooding and preparing temporary settlements for potential displaced persons. Danladi Obagu from the Nasarawa State Emergency Management Agency commented, “We are preparing because Nasarawa is among the states that have been predicted to experience serious flooding this year.”
The acting Director General of Borno State’s Emergency Management Agency confirmed that a committee has been established to implement measures for flood prevention. Ali Abdullahi stated, “The state government has a permanent committee on flood control… They have been working for the past three months.”
In Bayelsa, Chief Walson Omusu of the Directorate of Flood and Erosion Control has committed to clearing canals in the state capital, Yenagoa, before the rains begin. He assured, “The canals had been identified and would soon be cleared to address flash floods.”
Bauchi State’s government remains vigilant, maintaining an awareness campaign aimed at flood-prone communities. Adamu Nayola, the Information Officer for the State Emergency Management Agency, affirmed that since the last rainy season, efforts have been ongoing to mitigate flooding, including reconstruction of bridges affected during previous floods.
In conclusion, as the 2025 rainy season approaches, these concerted efforts across states aim not only to avert a potential flood crisis but also to integrate a strategic approach that prioritizes community safety and resilience. The proactive measures taken reflect a recognition of the growing threat posed by climate change and the need for sustainable solutions to protect lives and properties in affected regions.