The Nigerian government has warned 30 states and the Federal Capital Territory of imminent flooding risks in 2025. The new flood outlook introduces community-based forecasts for improved preparedness. Key flood-prone states include Bayelsa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers, with over 1,200 communities facing high flood risks this year.
The Nigerian Federal Government has issued a warning to 30 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) about the likelihood of heavy rains and flooding in 2025. Minister of Water Resources, Joseph Utsev, presented the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) during a briefing in Abuja, highlighting the risk of coastal and riverine flooding in southern regions due to rising sea levels.
Among the states at high flood risk are Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, and Rivers, alongside others like Abia, Adamawa, and Lagos. Utsev emphasized that climate change is exacerbating the severity and frequency of floods across the country. Over 1,200 communities in 176 Local Government Areas (LGAs) are in high-risk flood zones, with 2,187 communities in 293 LGAs facing moderate risks.
The government introduced a community-based flood forecasting approach this year, providing more localized and actionable warnings. This initiative aims to improve preparedness at the grassroots level by offering specific flood forecasts for individual communities.
Utsev’s comments underscored the growing threat posed by flooding, which continues to devastate Nigeria’s infrastructure and communities. Stakeholders were urged to focus on early responses to protect lives and livelihoods, with improved communication channels set to support flood mitigation efforts.
