The Lagos State Government has directed residents of low-lying, flood-prone communities to relocate temporarily to higher ground after the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) issued a fresh seven-day flood alert.
In a statement disclosed by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, areas identified as vulnerable to flooding include Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla (Ajah), Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B, among others.
He said the state government was taking the advisory seriously and had intensified monitoring of the identified locations, as well as other riverine, low-lying, and flood-prone communities.
Wahab urged residents not to wait until floodwaters rise before taking action, stressing that early preparation and temporary relocation could prevent loss of life and property.
He advised residents around rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other waterways to remain vigilant and comply with safety advisories from relevant government agencies.
The commissioner also listed Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto, parts of Agboyi and other communities downstream of Isheri Olofin as areas requiring heightened vigilance between September 19 and 25.
According to the NIHSA forecast, rising river levels could flood vulnerable communities and affect critical facilities, including schools, healthcare centres, markets, farms and places of worship.
Wahab urged local governments, emergency management agencies, community leaders and residents to activate early-warning and response mechanisms, while moving people, livestock and valuables to safer locations where necessary.
He said the state government would continue to monitor rainfall patterns and river levels in collaboration with relevant federal agencies, while sustaining the cleaning, maintenance and monitoring of drainage infrastructure.
Wahab also appealed to residents to desist from dumping refuse in drains, canals and waterways, noting that blocked drainage channels could worsen flooding and delay the recession of floodwaters.
He cautioned residents against walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-moving water, urging those in vulnerable communities to make arrangements for temporary relocation whenever official warnings indicate an imminent threat.
The commissioner said protecting lives and property remained the state government’s priority, urging residents to remain calm, vigilant, and responsive to official flood advisories.