The Lagos State Government has directed residents living in low-lying and flood-prone communities to relocate temporarily to higher ground following a fresh seven-day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA).

The advisory, identified as NFA-2026-2022, covers Lagos and 14 other states and warns of rising river levels that could trigger flooding in vulnerable communities.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the state government was treating the warning with the utmost seriousness and had intensified monitoring across areas identified as vulnerable.

The affected locations include parts of Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri Sea Port, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B.

Other communities placed on heightened alert include Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto and parts of Agboyi, particularly areas downstream of Isheri Olofin.

Wahab urged residents not to wait until floodwaters rise before taking action, stressing that early preparation and temporary relocation could help prevent loss of life and property.

“We are urging Lagosians, particularly those living in flood-prone and low-lying areas, not to take this warning lightly,” the commissioner said, according to the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.

He advised residents living near rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other water bodies to remain vigilant and follow official safety advisories.

The commissioner also warned communities along the Ogun River and other major waterways that rainfall and rising water levels upstream could affect downstream areas of Lagos.

The warning covers the period from September 19 to 25, during which residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain on high alert.

NiHSA said rising river levels could affect critical facilities including schools, healthcare centres, markets, farms and places of worship.

Wahab called on local governments, emergency agencies, community leaders and residents to activate early-warning and response measures and move people, livestock and valuable possessions to safer locations where necessary.

He also advised residents against walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges or fast-moving water.

The Lagos Government said it would continue monitoring rainfall patterns, river levels and other hydrological developments in collaboration with federal agencies.

It also urged residents to avoid dumping refuse in drains, canals and waterways, warning that blocked drainage channels could worsen flooding and slow the recession of floodwaters.

The state government said residents should remain calm, vigilant and responsive to official flood forecasts as the rainy season continues.