Flooding in Nigeria

Severe flooding has impacted multiple regions across Nigeria, threatening infrastructure and lives. Initially, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency warned that approximately 4,500 schools and 8,000 communities across 15 states were at risk, with rising water levels on the River Niger causing concerns for riverine communities and educational stability.

As the situation progressed, flooding in Nasarawa State’s Doma Local Government Area resulted in at least two deaths and the submergence of more than 18 communities. The overflow of the River Benue destroyed homes and farmland, displacing thousands of residents. Authorities have noted concerns regarding a potential water release from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon as the disaster continues to impact food security and livelihoods.

In Anambra State, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) reported rising water levels that trapped school children in a bus in Nibo. By late October 2026, NEMA reported that the disaster had affected 673,350 people across 134 local government areas in 28 states, resulting in 245 deaths and the displacement of 214,997 individuals.

NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar noted that children comprise 38 percent of those affected, while women account for 31 percent. The North-West geopolitical zone has seen 57 percent of the affected population, with Akwa Ibom state accounting for 29 percent of the total. Authorities have expressed growing concern regarding public health threats, such as cholera, due to contaminated water in displaced communities.