Nigeria Warns of High Flood Risk for 14,000 Communities

The Federal Government of Nigeria has raised an alarm regarding high flood risks across the country for the year 2026, affecting over 14,000 communities in 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This warning was issued during the presentation of the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) at the State Banquet Hall, Aso Villa, Abuja.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Minister of Environment Balarab Abba Lawal, emphasized the significance of this event as a milestone in the administration's efforts to enhance national resilience against flood-related disasters. The report indicates that 14,118 communities in 266 local government areas (LGAs) are categorized as high flood risk areas, while an additional 15,597 communities in 405 LGAs across 35 states face moderate risk.

The report highlights the expected increase in flood intensity from July to September 2026, attributing risks to heavy rainfall, poor drainage systems, and rapid urbanization. The government is implementing various policies, including nationwide flood control projects, to mitigate these risks.