Lagos orders evacuation in flood-prone communities

The Lagos State Government has issued an emergency evacuation advisory for residents in low-lying and flood-prone communities. This follows a seven-day high riverine flood-risk warning from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA), which covers Lagos and 14 other states.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab identified several vulnerable locations, including Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty, and Jetty Terminal B. Other areas on heightened alert include Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto, and parts of Agboyi.

The warning period is set for September 19 to September 25, 2026. Officials noted that the second phase of the rainy season often brings increased rainfall and tidal influences that exacerbate flooding. Wahab urged residents to relocate to higher ground early, stating, “When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life.”