The Lagos State Government has advised residents living in flood-prone communities to temporarily relocate to higher ground as the state braces for possible flooding following a fresh seven-day flood alert.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, issued the warning in a statement released by the Director of Public Affairs in the ministry, Kunle Adeshina, on Monday in Lagos.
Wahab said the directive followed a new flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA), warning of possible flooding in Lagos and 14 other states due to rising river levels.
According to the alert, vulnerable communities could experience flooding that may affect schools, healthcare facilities, markets, farms and places of worship.
The commissioner identified several locations in Lagos as being at risk, including Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B.
He urged residents in affected areas to take precautionary measures early rather than waiting until floodwaters become dangerous.
“When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” Wahab said.
He disclosed that the state government had stepped up monitoring activities in riverine, low-lying and other communities considered vulnerable to flooding.
Wahab advised residents in affected areas to move to higher ground and remain there until the peak of the current rainy season had passed.
He explained that Lagos typically experiences another phase of heavy rainfall from September, which can lead to increased rainfall, rising water levels and tidal effects.
The commissioner specifically urged residents living close to rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other waterways to remain alert and follow official safety instructions.
He also called for increased vigilance among communities located along the Ogun River and other major waterways, noting that heavy rainfall upstream and rising river levels could affect communities downstream.
Areas mentioned for heightened monitoring include Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto and parts of Agboyi.
According to Wahab, residents in these locations and other communities downstream of Isheri Olofin should remain particularly vigilant between September 19 and September 25.
Residents of coastal and waterfront communities were also advised to monitor official flood forecasts and make preparations for temporary relocation if flooding becomes imminent.
Wahab urged local governments, emergency management agencies, community leaders and residents to activate their early-warning and emergency response systems.
He advised residents to move people, livestock and valuable belongings to safer locations whenever necessary.
The commissioner said the state government would continue to monitor rainfall patterns, river levels and other hydrological developments in collaboration with relevant federal agencies.
He added that the government would sustain the cleaning, maintenance and monitoring of drainage infrastructure across Lagos as part of efforts to reduce the impact of flooding.
Wahab also warned residents against dumping refuse indiscriminately in drains, canals and waterways, stressing that blocked drainage channels could worsen flooding and expose communities to greater risks.
He further cautioned motorists and pedestrians against attempting to cross flooded roads, bridges or fast-moving water.
The commissioner assured residents that the state government would continue implementing measures to reduce flood risks and provide updates as the situation develops.
He called on Lagos residents to remain calm, vigilant and responsive to official flood warnings and safety directives.
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