The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued a seven-day flood advisory, warning of a medium flood risk in 17 states from July 21 to July 27.
The agency said rising water levels at key river monitoring stations have increased the risk of localised flooding along river channels and floodplains. NIHSA Director-General, Umar Mohammed, disclosed this in the National Flood Advisory (Alert No. NFA-2026-200) issued on Tuesday.
The affected states are Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara. Mohammed said river levels at Saminaka on the Karam River, Waya Dam site on the Waya River and Amber on the Amber River had exceeded warning thresholds, while 16 gauging stations nationwide recorded elevated water levels.
NIHSA identified Bauchi as the worst-hit state, with 1,841 communities, 145 schools, 101 health facilities and eight markets at risk. Vulnerable communities and public facilities were also identified in Edo, Imo, Kaduna, Plateau and Benue states.
Mohammed urged NEMA, state emergency agencies, local governments and community leaders to activate emergency response plans, relocate residents, livestock and valuables from flood-prone areas, and pre-position food, medical supplies and water treatment materials.
He also advised authorities to clear blocked drains and waterways, while urging residents to avoid flooded roads and waterways and monitor daily flood updates issued by NIHSA.
