The Lagos State Government has directed residents in flood-prone and low-lying communities to temporarily relocate to higher ground following a fresh flood alert by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA).
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab issued the directive on Monday, warning residents not to wait for floodwaters to rise before taking action.
NiHSA had issued a seven-day high-risk riverine flood alert covering Lagos and 14 other states from September 19 to 25, citing rising river levels and the possibility of flooding in vulnerable communities.
Wahab identified Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty, and Jetty Terminal B among areas at risk.
He also listed Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto, and parts of Agboyi as communities requiring heightened vigilance, particularly those downstream of Isheri Olofin.
The commissioner said rising water levels in the Ogun River and other waterways, combined with rainfall upstream, could increase flood risks in downstream communities bridges,
He urged residents near rivers, lagoons, wetlands, and drainage channels to monitor official warnings and prepare for temporary relocation where necessary.
“When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” Wahab said.
He also advised residents against walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-moving water, while urging communities to avoid dumping refuse into drains and waterways.
The state government, he said, would continue monitoring rainfall, river levels, and drainage infrastructure in collaboration with relevant agencies.
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