The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has alerted residents and authorities in 17 states to prepare for possible flooding over the next seven days, from July 21 to July 27, following rising water levels across several river basins.
The warning, contained in the agency’s National Flood Advisory (Alert No. NFA-2026-200) released on Tuesday, was signed by the Director-General of NIHSA, Umar Mohammed.
According to the agency, increased water levels recorded at major river monitoring stations have heightened the risk of localised flooding in communities situated along rivers and floodplains.
The states identified as being under medium flood risk are Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara.
Mohammed explained that river gauges at Saminara on the Karam River, Waya Dam Site on the Waya River and Amber on the Amber River have surpassed their warning limits. He added that 16 hydrological monitoring stations across the country are currently recording high river levels, increasing the possibility of flooding in surrounding communities.
Among the affected states, Bauchi is projected to face the greatest impact, with 1,841 communities, 145 schools, 101 healthcare facilities and eight markets considered vulnerable. Similar risks were also identified in parts of Edo, Imo, Kaduna, Plateau and Benue states.
The NIHSA chief urged state governments, local councils and residents of flood-prone areas to act swiftly by implementing preventive measures. He called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) and community leaders to activate emergency response plans without delay.
He also advised the relocation of people, livestock and valuable property from flood-prone locations to safer areas, while recommending that emergency agencies stockpile food items, medical supplies and water purification materials ahead of any flooding incidents.
To enhance preparedness, Mohammed encouraged the use of local communication networks and early warning volunteers to ensure flood alerts reach vulnerable communities promptly.
He further warned residents to avoid driving, walking or riding through flooded roads, bridges or fast-moving water, stressing that such actions could be life-threatening.
In addition, he urged relevant authorities to clear blocked drainage channels, culverts and waterways to minimise flood risks, while advising the public to stay updated with daily flood forecasts and advisories issued by NIHSA.