The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, has issued a high flood risk alert covering 15 states from September 19 to 25, 2026.

NIHSA Director General, Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, says the alert follows forecasts of rising river levels and riverine flooding. He says nine river stations are at risk, including Obubra, Itigidi and Epento on the Cross River.

The agency says large populations and critical infrastructure are exposed. In Cross River State alone, about 2,471 communities, 703 schools, 344 health facilities, 145 markets, 453 religious centres and 854 hectares of farmland are within the risk areas. Other affected states include Imo, Ebonyi, Benue, Anambra and Akwa Ibom.

‎Mohammed has urged state governments, local councils, emergency agencies and residents in vulnerable areas to move people and valuables to higher ground, activate early warning systems, avoid crossing flooded roads, and prepare relief materials and safe shelters.

‎He says NIHSA will continue to monitor river levels and issue updates, and asks the public to rely only on official advisories.