By Ismaeel Aleem
The Federal Ministry of Environment has issued an urgent flood alert for 15 states, warning that 43 locations across Nigeria could face heavy rainfall and potential flooding between 4 and 8 September 2025.
The alert, signed by Usman Abdullahi Bokani, Director of the Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management Department at the National Flood Early Warning Centre, highlighted the growing threat of flooding during Nigeria’s peak rainy season.
The affected states include Ebonyi (Afikpo), Cross River (Edor, Ikom, Itigidi, Akpap), Kano (Gwarzo, Karaye), Zamfara (Anka, Gummi, Kaura Namoda, Maradun, Shinkafi, Bukkuyum), Taraba (Dampar, Duchi, Garkowa, Gassol, Gembu, Gun Gun Bodel, Kambari, Mayo Ranewo, Mutum Biyu, Bandawa, Ngaruwa), Abia (Eziama, Umuahia), Yobe (Geidam, Kanama, Potiskum), Plateau (Langtang, Shendam, Wase), Borno (Ngala), Imo (Okigwe, Otoko), Niger (Sarki Pawa), Sokoto (Sokoto, Wamakko, Isa, Shagari, Makira), Kaduna (Kafanchan), and Akwa Ibom (Oron).
READ ALSO: Obasanjo urges Nigerians to view healthcare as a right, not a privilege
The warning follows recent devastating floods, including the May 2025 Mokwa disaster in Niger State, which claimed over 500 lives and displaced thousands.
Flooding, a recurring challenge in Nigeria, has been worsened by climate change and inadequate drainage infrastructure, leaving communities vulnerable to displacement, the loss of farmlands, and waterborne diseases.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has also forecast thunderstorms and moderate rainfall in northern states such as Jigawa, Zamfara, and Kano, warning of possible flash floods.
In response, the Chinese government has donated \$1 million to support flood victims in northern Nigeria. The donation was formalised in Abuja by Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, and Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai.
Bagudu described the aid as timely, stressing that it would complement Nigeria’s efforts to provide relief and rebuild livelihoods.
“A transparent framework will ensure this assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries efficiently,” Bagudu assured, noting that a joint monitoring mechanism had been established with the Chinese Embassy.
Ambassador Dunhai expressed solidarity, highlighting China’s own experience with flooding, and added: “In times of difficulty, China and Nigeria always stand together.”
The government has urged residents in high-risk areas to take precautionary measures, including relocating to higher ground and avoiding flooded roads.
READ ALSO: Sanwo-Olu backs tech growth to drive Nigeria’s $1trn economy goal
Stakeholders have also been encouraged to provide feedback to strengthen flood response coordination.
As Nigeria grapples with the intensifying effects of climate change, the alert underscores the urgent need for improved infrastructure and proactive disaster preparedness to mitigate the devastating impact of flooding nationwide.
