NIHSA Warns: Over 1,200 Communities Across States In Nigeria Including Lagos, Rivers, FCT, At High Risk Of Flooding In 2025

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has identified 1,249 communities in 176 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across 33 states and the FCT as high flood-risk zones in 2025.

The warning came during the official release of the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, in Abuja. 

An additional 2,187 communities in 293 LGAs are expected to face moderate flood risks.

High-risk states include Lagos, Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, Kogi, Jigawa, and 27 others. Flash floods are also expected in major cities like Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Kano, and Makurdi due to poor drainage and weak infrastructure.

Utsev emphasized the need for preparedness, highlighting this year’s theme of community resilience and adaptation. The AFO is divided into three components: a general forecast, a communication strategy, and a mitigation plan.

He also announced key initiatives such as the National Flood Insurance Programme, starting in Kogi and Jigawa, the Niger Flood Project, and an upcoming Integrated Climate Resilience Project.

NIHSA Director-General Umar Mohammed said the 2025 forecast focuses on community-specific risks and sectoral impacts, aiming to equip decision-makers with actionable data to protect lives and property.

The event also featured the launch of NIHSA’s Flood and Drought Dashboard and drew support from national and international partners.