33 States, Over 14,000 Communities At High Flood Risk In 2026, FG Warns
14th April, 2026 | News
The Federal Government has identified 226 local government areas across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory as high flood-risk zones for 2026, warning of widespread vulnerability as the rainy season approaches.
Speaking at the presentation of the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, disclosed that over 14,000 communities in 266 LGAs fall within high-risk areas.
He listed affected states to include 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.
The outlook also revealed that 405 LGAs across 35 states fall within moderate flood-risk zones, with Ekiti State being the only exception.
In addition, minimal flooding is expected in 923 communities spread across 77 LGAs in 24 states, including 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 noted that this year’s forecast introduces a community-based approach, allowing for more targeted and timely interventions at the grassroots level.
Meanwhile, Bola Tinubu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening emergency response systems and promoting sustainable development. Represented by the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, the president said efforts are ongoing to improve coordination, planning, and the operational capacity of response agencies.
He emphasised the importance of effective communication in enhancing public awareness and ensuring swift responses to emergencies, expressing confidence that improved strategies would help mitigate flood risks and deliver better outcomes for Nigerians.
The event, themed “Smart Water Resources Management: Moving From Oil To A Water-Based Economy,” drew participation from government officials and key stakeholders.