NiHSA warns of imminent flooding in Kogi, Anambra, Delta, others

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) has warned of possible flooding in Kogi, Anambra, and Delta States following rising water levels along the River Niger and River Benue

The agency also identified Benue, Adamawa, Niger, and Bayelsa States as high-risk areas, urging residents in flood-prone communities to remain vigilant and heed official safety advisories.

NiHSA’s Director General, Umar Muhammed, issued the warning on Thursday during a press briefing in Abuja, revealing that water quality tests conducted during flood assessment exercises showed contamination in several shallow wells due to floodwater intrusion.

“At the moment, our monitoring indicates high water levels along parts of the Niger and Benue Rivers, with the possibility of localized flooding in Kogi, Anambra, and Delta States,” Muhammed said.

“We call for stronger collaboration among government agencies, humanitarian partners, and local authorities to provide safe drinking water to affected communities.”

Muhammed noted that the alert highlights growing concerns about Nigeria’s flood preparedness amid climate change, emphasizing the need for proactive and coordinated action by federal, state, and local authorities.

He disclosed that NiHSA is implementing a Five-Year Strategic Action Plan aimed at improving innovation, regional operations, and stakeholder engagement in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“NiHSA is strengthening its zonal offices and expanding real-time data collection systems.

“Our upgraded early warning system now integrates satellite imagery, digital modeling, and field measurements to predict and communicate flood risks more accurately,” he added.

According to the DG, the agency operates a nationwide network of hydrological and groundwater monitoring stations that provide real-time data for forecasting, planning, and decision-making, helping communities make informed choices on land use and water management.

Muhammed also reaffirmed NiHSA’s commitment to a data-driven, preventive approach that prioritizes saving lives, protecting infrastructure, and strengthening climate resilience.

The DG highlighted the agency’s collaboration with national institutions — including NIMET, NEMA, and the National Water Resources Institute — as well as regional and global bodies like the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and UNESCO, to align with international best practices.

Also speaking, Stephen Jabo, Technical Adviser to the DG, said Benue, Adamawa, Niger, and Bayelsa States remain at high risk of flooding despite the approaching end of the rainy season.

He warned that riverine flooding could persist in the coming weeks due to elevated water levels in the Niger and Benue Rivers.

Jabo urged residents in vulnerable areas to move to higher ground, make use of designated flood camps, and avoid walking or swimming through floodwaters.

He also called on state governments to intensify public sensitisation and clear drainage systems to minimize flood impact.

“Communities along riverbanks must remain on alert and prepare for possible evacuation,” he cautioned.