By Emmanuel Daniji

Families living in some of Lagos’ low-lying and waterfront communities have been warned to temporarily move to higher ground as the state braces for a fresh flood threat.

The Lagos State Government issued the warning after the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) released a seven-day flood alert covering September 19 to 25, with Lagos among 15 states identified as being at high risk of riverine flooding.

Lagos Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, urged residents not to wait until floodwaters enter their homes before taking action.

He specifically identified areas including Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B as vulnerable locations.

Other communities placed on heightened alert include Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto and parts of Agboyi, particularly settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin.

The warning comes at a time when many Lagos residents are already dealing with the challenges that come with heavy rainfall, including flooded roads, blocked drainage channels and difficult movement.

According to NiHSA, rising river levels during the seven-day period could trigger flooding in vulnerable communities and affect schools, healthcare facilities, markets, farms and religious buildings. The agency has urged residents in flood-prone areas to move to safer and higher ground where necessary.

Wahab said the state government was monitoring river levels, rainfall patterns and other hydrological developments in collaboration with relevant federal agencies.

He also warned communities along the Ogun River and other major waterways to remain particularly vigilant because rainfall upstream and rising water levels could affect downstream communities.

For residents living close to rivers, lagoons, wetlands, canals and drainage channels, the government advised them to monitor official flood forecasts and prepare for temporary relocation when necessary.

“ When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” Wahab said.

The commissioner also appealed to local governments, emergency management agencies, community leaders and residents to activate their early-warning and emergency response systems.

Residents were advised to move people, livestock and valuable belongings to safer locations where necessary and to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges or fast-moving water.

The state government also urged residents to stop dumping refuse into drains, canals and waterways, warning that blocked drainage channels could worsen flooding.

NiHSA’s latest advisory covers 15 states, including Lagos, and calls for close monitoring of vulnerable river stations and early action by state and local authorities.

Wahab said Lagos would continue its monitoring of flood-prone areas, drainage maintenance and other measures aimed at reducing the impact of flooding.

For residents in the affected communities, the message is clear: do not wait for the water to rise before deciding where to go.