NiHSA Warns of Severe Flooding in 15 Nigerian States

The Hydrological Service Agency (NiHSA) has issued a warning regarding severe riverine flooding expected across 15 states in Nigeria from September 19 to 25, 2026. Arch Umar Mohammed, NiHSA's director general and CEO, announced the forecast on September 18, urging state governments to relocate residents to safer areas promptly.

The advisory indicates that 2,471 communities, 703 schools, 344 healthcare facilities, 145 markets, 453 religious buildings, and 854 hectares of farmland are at risk in various states. Ebonyi state is particularly vulnerable, with 2,574 communities and significant infrastructure at risk.

Other affected states include Imo, Anambra, and Benue, with detailed assessments of community and infrastructure exposure provided. NiHSA also identified additional states, including Edo, Bayelsa, Enugu, Kogi, Delta, Abia, Taraba, and Rivers, as facing severe flooding consequences.

The agency emphasized the urgency of preparation as the flooding window approaches.