FG warns of flood disaster in 17 states, issues seven-day advisory

The Federal Government has warned of a possible flood disaster in 17 states, as the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) issued a seven-day flood advisory covering 21 July to 27 July 2026.

In the National Flood Advisory (Alert No. NFA-2026-200) issued on Tuesday, NIHSA Director-General, Umar Mohammed, listed the affected states as Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara.

The agency said the alert followed rising water levels at key river monitoring stations, increasing the likelihood of localised flooding along river channels and floodplains.

According to him, river levels at Saminaka on the Karam River, Waya Dam site on the Waya River and Amber on the Amber River have exceeded watch and warning thresholds.

Mr Mohammed added that 16 gauging stations across the country are recording elevated river levels, putting nearby communities at risk of flooding.

Bauchi records highest exposure

NIHSA disclosed that Bauchi State has the highest level of exposure, with 1,841 communities, 145 schools, 101 health facilities and eight markets identified as vulnerable.

The agency also identified flood-prone communities and public facilities in Edo, Imo, Kaduna, Plateau and Benue states.

Residents urged to take precaution

Mr Mohammed called on state governments, local authorities and residents in flood-prone areas to immediately implement precautionary measures.

He urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), local governments and community leaders to activate emergency response plans.

The NIHSA boss recommended relocating residents, livestock and valuables from floodplains to safer locations ahead of potential flooding.

Emergency supplies, drainage clearance advised

The agency also advised emergency responders to pre-position food supplies, medical items and water treatment materials in communities likely to be affected.

Mr Mohammed encouraged community mobilisation through early warning volunteers and local communication channels to ensure flood alerts reach residents promptly.

He further warned residents against walking, driving or riding through flooded roads, bridges or fast-flowing waterways.

Authorities were also urged to clear blocked drains, culverts and waterways to improve water flow and minimise flooding.

Previous flood alerts

The latest advisory comes days after NIHSA warned that 14 states faced a medium flood risk between 14 July and 20 July, following its hydrological forecast.

Earlier, the Federal Ministry of Environment also issued a flood alert covering 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory, warning that heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in hundreds of communities.

Both agencies advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant, monitor official weather updates and relocate where necessary to safeguard lives and property.