The Lagos State Government has directed residents living in flood-prone and low-lying communities to temporarily relocate to safer, higher ground following a fresh flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA).
The seven-day flood advisory, which covers September 19 to 25, 2026, places Lagos among 15 states at risk of flooding due to rising river levels.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, issued the directive in a statement released by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina.
Wahab urged residents in vulnerable communities not to wait until floodwaters rise before taking precautionary measures, stressing that early relocation could help prevent loss of lives and property.
“We are urging Lagosians, particularly those living in flood-prone and low-lying areas, not to take this warning lightly. When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” the commissioner said.
Areas at Risk
The Lagos State Government identified the following locations as vulnerable to flooding:
- Eti-Osa
- Lagos Island
- Oke-Ira Nla, Ajah
- Kirikiri
- Ilaje Waterfront Jetty
- Jetty Terminal B
- Isheri North
- Kara
- Itowolo
- Ajegunle
- Majidun
- Ogolonto
- Parts of Agboyi
The government also warned communities located downstream of Isheri Olofin and those along the Ogun River and other major waterways to remain on high alert, as heavy rainfall upstream could increase water levels downstream.
Residents living close to rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other water bodies were advised to monitor official flood forecasts and be prepared to relocate temporarily whenever the threat becomes imminent.
The government further cautioned residents against walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-moving water.
Wahab also appealed to residents to stop dumping refuse into drains, canals and waterways, noting that blocked drainage channels could worsen flooding and delay the recession of floodwaters.
The state government said it would continue monitoring river levels, rainfall patterns and other hydrological developments in collaboration with relevant federal agencies.
Residents were urged to treat official flood warnings seriously and move people, livestock and valuable belongings to safer locations where necessary.
