The Lagos State Government has advised residents of flood-prone communities to temporarily relocate to higher ground following a fresh seven-day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, gave the warning in a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina, on Monday.
Wahab said the alert covered Lagos and 14 other states, warning that rising river levels could trigger flooding in vulnerable communities and affect schools, healthcare centres, markets, farms and places of worship.
He identified Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B among areas requiring particular vigilance.
The commissioner urged residents not to wait for floodwaters to rise before taking preventive action.
“When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” he said.
Wahab said the state government had intensified monitoring of riverine, low-lying and other flood-prone communities, advising residents to remain on higher ground until the peak of the resurgent rainy season passed.
He explained that Lagos typically experiences a second phase of the rainy season from September, characterised by increased rainfall, rising water levels and tidal influences.
Residents living near rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other waterways were urged to remain vigilant and comply with official safety advisories.
Wahab specifically listed Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto and parts of Agboyi as areas requiring heightened alert due to possible downstream effects of rising water levels along the Ogun River and other major waterways.
He said residents in those communities and other settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin should remain on high alert between Sept. 19 and Sept. 25.
The commissioner also advised residents of coastal and waterfront communities to monitor official flood forecasts and prepare for temporary relocation when necessary.
He called on local governments, emergency management agencies, community leaders and residents to activate early-warning and response mechanisms, including moving people, livestock and valuable possessions to safer locations where required.
According to him, the state government will continue to monitor river levels, rainfall patterns and other hydrological developments in collaboration with relevant federal agencies.
He added that routine cleaning, maintenance and monitoring of drainage infrastructure would continue across the state.
Wahab also warned residents against indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drains, canals and waterways, noting that blocked drainage channels could worsen flooding.
He advised motorists and pedestrians to avoid flooded roads, bridges and fast-moving water.
The commissioner urged Lagos residents to remain calm, vigilant and responsive to official flood advisories as the government continues efforts to reduce flood risks.