Abuja: The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) has issued a critical flood alert warning for 107 local government areas (LGAs) across 29 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) between September 1 and September 15.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the advisory, which was released on Monday in Abuja, relies on data from the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO). The alert is supported by real-time hydrometric readings, river-stage forecasts, and satellite mapping. The alert, signed by NiHSA’s Director-General, Mr. Umar Mohammed, indicates that over 631 communities and more than 50 vital transport and infrastructure points are at potential risk.

The agency reported that the flood risk levels range from moderate to very high, posing threats of river overbanking, flash floods, and localized inundation in riverine and low-lying areas. The states identified for heightened flood watch include Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara.

The potential flooding could disrupt highways and bridges, endanger lives, livelihoods, agriculture, and public infrastructure, and increase the risks of water contamination and disease outbreaks. NiHSA has urged federal and state emergency agencies to activate contingency plans, deploy response teams, and pre-position relief materials to mitigate the impact.

Local governments and community leaders are encouraged to intensify sensitization campaigns, identify evacuation routes, and prepare shelters for at-risk residents. Communities and individuals are advised to avoid flooded roads, relocate to higher ground when necessary, and adhere to official safety instructions.

“This alert is to safeguard lives and property, and we call for proactive measures across all levels,” Mr. Mohammed stated. NiHSA has assured the public that it will continue to monitor the hydrological situation and provide timely updates through its official platforms.