The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) has warned of a rising flood threat across 27 states between July 30 and August 5, 2026, following increasing river levels that could trigger severe riverine flooding.

Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, issued the alert in Abuja, saying 53 key river monitoring stations are currently at risk as water levels continue to rise.

‎According to him, critical locations under close observation include the Katsina Ala River in Benue State, the Aye River in Itoikin, Lagos State, and the River Niger in Onitsha, Anambra State.

‎NiHSA identified Niger, Kaduna, Kwara, Delta, Kogi and Edo among the states expected to be significantly affected, alongside 21 others if the flood situation worsens.

‎The agency warned that the anticipated flooding could disrupt communities, schools, healthcare facilities, markets, places of worship and farmlands unless preventive measures are taken promptly.

‎Residents of flood-prone communities were advised to relocate to safer areas where necessary, monitor official flood advisories, avoid crossing flooded roads or fast-flowing rivers, clear drainage channels and support community early warning efforts. Authorities were also urged to pre-position relief materials and prepare evacuation shelters.

Mohammed stressed that early warning, collective preparedness and timely action remain the most effective ways to reduce the impact of flooding. He assured Nigerians that NiHSA would continue to monitor river conditions nationwide and issue regular forecasts and advisories to safeguard lives and property.