The Federal government has issued a fresh flood alert, warning that 1,402 communities across 28 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are at risk of flooding between the 5th and 18th of July, 2026, following forecasts of heavy rainfall nationwide.
According to a flood prediction released by the Federal Ministry of Environment through its National Flood Early Warning Systems Center, 987 locations in 21 states have been classified as Critical Risk Areas, while 415 communities in seven states and the FCT fall under the High Risk category.
The director of Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management in the Ministry, Usman Bokani, revealed that the forecast was based on community risk levels, rainfall projections, hydrometeorological vulnerability indicators, and flood risk assessments.
Among the states listed as facing the highest flood threat are Abia, Akwa Ibom, Benue, Cross River, Kogi, Lagos, Niger, Oyo and Rivers.
Mr Bokani urged residents of communities under the Critical Risk category to remain on high alert, identify safe evacuation routes, protect vulnerable residents and avoid carrying out activities within floodplains and drainage corridors.
He also directed State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), local government authorities, environmental officers and community flood focal persons to intensify surveillance to minimise the impact of potential flooding.
News Edited By Favour Owonibi