Lagos Sounds Fresh Flood Alarm, Orders Residents in Vulnerable Communities to Move to Higher Ground

The Lagos State Government has issued a fresh warning to residents living in low-lying, riverine, coastal and other flood-prone communities, directing them to move to safer and higher ground as the state faces increased flood risks.

The warning followed a seven-day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA), covering September 19 to 25, 2026, and affecting Lagos and 14 other states. The alert, identified as NFA-2026-2022, warned of rising river levels and the possibility of flooding in vulnerable communities.

The Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, urged residents not to wait until floodwaters begin entering their homes before taking action, stressing that early movement could save lives and reduce damage to property.

In a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina, the government said it had intensified surveillance and monitoring of vulnerable locations across the state.

Wahab specifically identified Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B among locations requiring heightened vigilance and possible temporary relocation.

Other communities listed for increased alert include Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto, parts of Agboyi and settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin.

According to the Commissioner, communities situated along the Ogun River and other major waterways are particularly vulnerable because heavy rainfall upstream and rising water levels in connected river systems can affect downstream areas in Lagos.

“No property is worth risking a life,” Wahab said, urging residents in areas facing immediate danger to relocate early and remain on safer ground while the flood threat persists.

Why Lagos is on alert

The State Government explained that Lagos normally experiences another significant phase of rainfall from September. Increased rainfall, rising river levels and tidal influences can combine to worsen flooding, particularly in communities located close to rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other waterways.

NiHSA’s warning also indicates that rising water levels could affect not only homes but critical facilities such as schools, healthcare centres, markets, farms and places of worship in vulnerable locations.

Global Mirror News reports that the latest advisory is therefore not limited to residents living directly beside waterways, as people in other low-lying locations could also face risks if heavy rainfall overwhelms drainage systems.

The State Government has consequently directed local government authorities, emergency management agencies and community leaders to activate early-warning and response measures where necessary.

Residents have also been advised to move people, livestock and valuable belongings to safer locations whenever there are indications of imminent flooding.

Government intensifies monitoring

The Lagos Government said it would continue monitoring rainfall patterns, river levels and other hydrological developments in collaboration with relevant federal agencies.

Routine cleaning, maintenance and monitoring of drainage infrastructure are also expected to continue as part of efforts to reduce the impact of flooding.

However, the Government again appealed to residents to stop dumping refuse into drains, canals and waterways, noting that blocked drainage channels can worsen flooding by restricting the movement of stormwater.

Wahab further warned residents against attempting to walk or drive through flooded roads, bridges or fast-moving water, stressing that apparently shallow floodwater can conceal dangerous conditions.

Residents in coastal and waterfront communities have also been encouraged to monitor official forecasts and be prepared to temporarily relocate whenever flooding becomes imminent.

As the NiHSA advisory remains in force through September 25, the Lagos Government is urging residents to remain calm but vigilant and to respond promptly to official safety instructions.

The State’s position is that early preparation and timely relocation are key to preventing avoidable loss of lives and property as rainfall and water levels continue to be monitored.

Global Mirror News will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on the flood situation and official safety advisories as they emerge.