The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged residents and relevant stakeholders to strengthen preparedness measures following a flash flood risk advisory issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) for 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to NiMet’s Probable Flash Flood Risk Map for the second dekad of July 2026, covering the period of 11th to 20th July, persistent rainfall and saturated soils have significantly increased the likelihood of flash flooding across several parts of the country.
States identified as being at elevated risk include Bauchi, Jigawa, Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, Delta, Edo, Abia, Imo, Ebonyi, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers and Bayelsa, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.
NiMet noted that the prolonged rainfall experienced in June and early July has left soils unable to absorb additional water, increasing the risk of rapid surface runoff, particularly in low-lying communities, urban centres with inadequate drainage systems and coastal areas.
The Agency warned that the expected flooding could disrupt transportation, damage critical infrastructure, affect agricultural activities, increase the risk of waterborne diseases and threaten lives and livelihoods if adequate precautionary measures are not taken.
In response to the advisory, NEMA called on State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs), relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, community leaders and other stakeholders to intensify preparedness efforts, strengthen coordination mechanisms and activate contingency plans to minimise the impact of possible flooding.
NEMA also advised residents in flood-prone communities to remain alert, monitor official weather forecasts and early warning information, clear drainage channels and waterways, avoid indiscriminate disposal of refuse, refrain from driving or walking through floodwaters, and promptly report emergencies to the appropriate authorities.
The Agency reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with NiMet, State Governments and other stakeholders to enhance disaster preparedness, promote early action and safeguard lives and property during the peak of the rainy season.
13th July, 2026
