As the rainy season reaches its peak, Nigeria once again faces the looming threat of devastating floods that could displace millions, destroy vast farmlands, and cripple socio-economic activities. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) have consistently warned that dozens of states and local government areas remain at high risk.
Concerns have been heightened by the release of excess water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam, combined with persistent heavy rainfall across the country.
Flooding is no stranger to Nigeria. The catastrophic events of 2012, 2022, and 2023 left deep scars—displacing hundreds of thousands, destroying property and livelihoods, and claiming lives. Yet, despite these bitter lessons, the cycle of devastation threatens to repeat itself. In many vulnerable communities, residents continue to resist evacuation orders, citing poverty, lack of alternatives, and fears of looting.
From Sokoto to Bayelsa, Kogi to Anambra, the story remains the same: while governments announce flood prevention measures, those most at risk are reluctant to leave their homes. State governments have invested in clearing drainages, constructing embankments, and setting up Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, but the unwillingness of residents to relocate undermines these efforts.
Short-term measures such as dredging rivers, desilting drainages, and sensitisation campaigns are ongoing in several states, yet experts warn they are not enough to avert large-scale disaster.
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State-by-State Situation
Akwa Ibom: Vulnerable Communities Under Water
Despite early federal warnings, Akwa Ibom continues to battle widespread flooding. Governor Umo Eno has launched drainage projects and awareness campaigns, but heavy rains in July submerged major parts of Uyo and Itu LGAs, including government buildings and roads. Many residents complain that construction activities have redirected floodwaters into homes, worsening the crisis.
Benue: River Benue Rising
With Makurdi and surrounding areas under threat, the state government has appealed to residents to relocate. Radio jingles in local languages urge people to move, but many insist on staying. Communities along the river, such as Wadata Rice and Achussa, remain highly vulnerable.
Anambra: Technology-Driven Response
Governor Chukwuma Soludo has activated 16 shelters and introduced a Japanese-supported digital early warning system. Drainage clearing and a statewide “Operation Keep Your Gutters Clean” campaign are underway. Yet, officials admit that many residents still wait until waters rise before fleeing.
Edo: Clean-Up Campaigns
The state has identified high-risk LGAs and launched the “Clean Edo” initiative to desilt drains and dismantle illegal structures. Relief centres are stocked with essentials, but residents remain hesitant to relocate for fear of losing property.
Bayelsa: ₦450 Million Relief Fund
With all 15 LGAs on red alert, Bayelsa has approved ₦450 million for relief and relocation. IDP camps have been set up, yet many residents prefer to remain in vulnerable areas, often building makeshift shelters on bridges and roads.
Kaduna: Early Warning Systems
Kaduna has installed automated flood alert systems, cleared drainages, and opened safe havens for residents. Authorities warn that refusal to relocate will put lives at risk.
Taraba: World Bank–Backed Response
The ACReSAL project has mobilised agencies to distribute life jackets, map high-risk LGAs, and set up relocation plans. Still, rural communities remain at risk due to poor awareness.
Kogi: 42 IDP Camps Ready
Kogi, historically one of the worst-hit states, has mapped out 42 camps to accommodate over 250,000 residents. The government has activated an Emergency Operations Centre in Lokoja, but many locals are yet to relocate despite repeated warnings.
Kano: Slow Relocation
Efforts to clear drainages, reinforce riverbanks, and set up IDP camps are ongoing. However, residents in Gaya, Rano, and other flood-prone LGAs are still reluctant to move.
Niger: Lessons from Recent Tragedy
After severe flooding earlier this year, Niger State has reinforced riverbanks and created shelters. Traditional rulers are now engaged in sensitisation efforts, though many farmers refuse to abandon their lands.
Kwara: Riverine Communities at Risk
Flood-prone LGAs such as Patigi and Edu have been targeted for awareness campaigns. Relief centres are stocked, but compliance with relocation remains low.
Adamawa: Focus on Riverine LGAs
Communities along River Benue face rising risks. Shelters and sensitisation campaigns are in place, but residents remain reluctant due to economic challenges.
Plateau: Relocation Resistance
Despite preparations in flood-prone LGAs such as Bassa and Barkin Ladi, residents remain hesitant to move, forcing the government to intensify traditional leadership engagement.
Ondo: Mapping and Dredging
Floods have already destroyed homes, farmlands, and bridges. A mapping exercise is ongoing, and authorities are warning residents against dumping refuse into drains. Still, many say relocation is impossible without government-provided housing.
Lagos: Coastal and Tidal Flooding
Low-lying areas in Lekki, Ikorodu, and Ajegunle remain under threat. A 13-hour rainfall recently devastated fish farms, wiping out over ₦150 million in investments. Despite relocation directives, residents argue that the high cost of accommodation makes moving unrealistic.
Ekiti: Preventive Measures in Low-Risk Areas
Though not considered high-risk, the government has launched dredging and desilting works in Ado-Ekiti and Ikere-Ekiti to prevent future disasters.
Ogun: Some Relocation Underway
While some residents of flood-prone areas like Isheri and Warewa have moved, others remain. Authorities warn that overflows from rivers and dams could worsen the situation.
Oyo: Peak Flood Period Approaches
Compliance with evacuation directives remains low, especially in Ibadan. Experts warn that rainfall patterns suggest the state is entering its most dangerous flood period.
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A National Challenge
Despite billions spent annually on flood control, dredging, and sensitisation, Nigeria continues to face the same challenges year after year. Poverty, lack of alternatives, and distrust in government interventions fuel resistance to relocation. Experts warn that unless long-term measures—such as river dredging, embankment construction, and resettlement planning—are prioritised, the nation will continue to suffer recurring flood disasters.
