Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a fresh warning about heavy rainfall and potential flooding in 30 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) ahead of the 2025 rainy season. This alert follows the official unveiling of the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) in Abuja on Thursday.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, highlighted that the flood risks are particularly high in coastal and riverine communities, especially within the South-South geopolitical zone.
⚠️ High-Risk States for Flooding in 2025
The flood-prone states include:
Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Zamfara, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Among the most vulnerable areas are Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Edo, where coastal flooding is expected due to rising sea levels.
🌧️ What the 2025 Flood Outlook Reveals
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) segmented the AFO into three categories—high risk, moderate risk, and low risk—to assist communities and policymakers in understanding and preparing for possible disasters.
Key insights from the flood outlook include:
- 1,249 communities in 176 Local Government Areas (LGAs) face high flood risks
- 2,187 communities in 293 LGAs are categorized under moderate risk
- The forecast now uses community-based flood prediction, focusing on grassroots-level alerts and localized action plans
📍 New Focus on Community-Level Preparedness
Unlike previous years, this year’s forecast introduces tailored flood predictions for individual communities. This strategy is expected to strengthen early warning systems, improve responsiveness, and reduce the overall impact of flooding.
“Flooding remains one of the most devastating natural disasters in Nigeria,” said Minister Utsev. “And with climate change, we’re seeing an increase in both its frequency and intensity.”
🛑 Government Urges Proactive Measures
Richard Pheelangwah, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasized that this warning isn’t merely a forecast—it’s a call to action.
“This outlook isn’t just about numbers, it’s about protecting lives and livelihoods,” Pheelangwah stated.
Umar Mohammed, Director General of NIHSA, added that the 2025 forecast goes further than just mapping LGAs. It now evaluates potential impacts on health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure, giving a holistic view of the threat level.
✅ Government’s Recommendations for Flood Prevention
- What You Can Do Now
To minimize the impact of the coming floods, affected residents and local authorities are urged to:
- Stay informed through local weather updates
- Relocate from high-risk flood zones, especially in vulnerable areas like Isheri and Akute in Ogun State
- Strengthen drainage systems and maintain clean water channels
- Prepare emergency kits and know local evacuation plans
How to Prepare for Floods in Nigeria
Preparing for floods in Nigeria requires proactive planning. Start by identifying whether your area is at high or moderate risk by consulting the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) updates. Clear drainage systems around your home, elevate electrical appliances, and have emergency supplies like food, water, medications, and flashlights ready. Keep important documents in waterproof containers and know your nearest evacuation routes. Community awareness and early warning alerts can significantly reduce risks.
Nigeria Flood Alert 2025
The Federal Government, through NIHSA, has issued a 2025 flood alert for 30 Nigerian states and the FCT, warning of severe rainfall and high flood risks. The most vulnerable areas include Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, Lagos, and Jigawa. The 2025 Annual Flood Outlook introduces community-based forecasting, helping residents and local governments respond better. Citizens are urged to follow updates and prioritize safety preparations.
2025 Flood Warning Nigeria
The 2025 flood warning in Nigeria highlights a significant risk of flooding in over 1,249 communities across 176 LGAs. An additional 2,187 communities in 293 LGAs are facing moderate risk. The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and NIHSA advise early relocation from high-risk zones and improved community response plans. The warning also addresses likely impacts on health, education, and infrastructure sectors due to climate-driven rainfall increases.
Heavy Rains in Nigeria 2025
Nigeria is expected to experience heavy rains in 2025, with possible coastal and riverine floods due to rising sea levels. States like Akwa Ibom, Edo, Cross River, and Bayelsa are particularly at risk. These rains, influenced by climate change, are forecasted to cause widespread disruptions. Early awareness and local flood preparedness are essential in minimizing damage and ensuring community safety during the rainy season.
📌 Final Thoughts
As Nigeria braces for another intense rainy season, proactive planning and early action remain the most effective ways to reduce loss of life and property. The government, agencies, and citizens must work together to ensure communities are better protected.
For a full list of high-risk areas and mitigation resources, visit the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) website.
