The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, has disclosed that 14,118 communities across 266 local government areas in 33 states and the FCT fall within high flood risk zones in 2026.
Utsev made this known on Wednesday during the public presentation of the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency at the State Banquet Hall of Aso Villa, Abuja.
“Fourteen thousand, one hundred and eighteen communities in 266 local government areas in 33 States and the FCT fall within the high flood risk areas.
“The states are: Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Zamfara, and the FCT,” he said.
According to the outlook, 405 LGAs across 35 states fall within the moderate flood risk category, with Ekiti State being the only exception.
The minister added that minimal flooding is expected in 923 communities across 77 LGAs in 24 states.
“Low Flood Risk: Incidences of minimal flood are expected in 923 communities in 77 LGAs in 24 States. The states are Adamawa, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Sokoto, Taraba, and Zamfara,” Utsev said.
He also revealed that the 2026 outlook introduces a community-based flood forecasting system, designed to provide more localised predictions for quicker response and intervention.
Meanwhile, Bola Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening emergency response systems and promoting sustainable development.
Represented by the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, the president said the government is working to improve coordination, planning, and the capacity of relevant agencies to respond effectively to emergencies.
He emphasised the importance of communication in enhancing public awareness, collaboration, and timely response to emerging threats.
The event, themed “Smart Water Resources Management: Moving From Oil To A Water-Based Economy,” was attended by ministers and other key stakeholders.
