By Mary Agidi
On July 7th, 2025, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) released a flash flood risk alert, identifying 20 states with varying levels of risk of experiencing flash floods due to the onset of rainfall across the country, as predicted in its Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP). This recurring pattern of flood disasters is attributed to climate change, which has become a perennial issue since 2022.
The affected states include Sokoto, Kaduna, Zamfara, Yobe, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Jigawa, Adamawa, Taraba, Niger, Nasarawa, Benue, Ogun, Ondo, Lagos, Delta, Edo, Cross River, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom.
2025 Devastating Flooding Incidents
Before this alert, several cases of devastating flooding had already occurred across the country, destroying homes and claiming hundreds of lives. A notable case was in Niger State last month, where over 1,000 individuals were reportedly dead or declared missing.
In Ondo State, continuous rainfall between June and now has caused severe flooding in many areas. One incident occurred in the Oba-Ile area of Akure, the state capital, where residents were displaced after the Ogijan River overflowed its banks and flooded the neighbourhood.
Other affected areas include Okitipupa, Akoko, Ondo City, and several coastal towns in the southern part of the state.
NiMet Advisories
In response to the NiMet prediction, climate change experts have issued several advisories to mitigate the impact. On its part, NiMet recommended measures such as clearing drainage systems, avoiding driving or walking through floodwaters, relocating if necessary, preparing emergency kits, turning off electricity and gas during flooding, reinforcing mudslide prevention efforts, and promoting community awareness.
Causes of Flooding
Before implementing mitigation strategies, it is essential to understand the causes of flooding, says Mr. Stephen Jabo, Technical Advisor to the Director-General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
Speaking during a live conversation on NTA International on July 13th, which focused on finding lasting solutions to the recurring floods, Jabo identified geographical factors and human activities as key causes of perennial flooding. He stressed the importance of state governments adopting measures like river dredging and continuous community engagement.
Also contributing, Air Commodore Kenneth Oyong, Director of Search and Rescue at the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), noted that while geographical factors are beyond human control, mitigation efforts must include relocation to upland areas and consistent distribution of relief materials.
He asserted that as long as the earth exists, rain will continue to fall, and sea levels will keep rising due to climate change. He emphasized the need to build community resilience, as many residents of coastal areas remain unwilling to relocate. He also called for topographical mapping, private sector involvement in advocacy, and continuous community engagement to change behaviours that contribute to flooding.
Private Sector’s Reactions
Reacting to the developments, Mr. Kayode Ojelola, a climate advocate and founder of Elomgreenie, called for urgent, coordinated efforts to mitigate the risks and prevent disasters.
Describing the NiMet alert as more than just a weather warning, Ojelola said it should serve as a wake-up call for governments and individuals to act swiftly. He emphasized the need for climate-focused organizations like Elomgreenie to collaborate with youths, communities, and local authorities to build climate awareness and resilience nationwide.
“This alert demands immediate action. On our part, we are addressing climate vulnerability through advocacy, climate-resilient housing research, and sustainability projects,” he stated.
To reduce the impact of flash floods, Ojelola advised governments to urgently clear and maintain drainage systems, especially in flood-prone urban centers such as Oja Oba and Adesuper. “Let it be an operation: clean the drainages,” he stressed.
He also advocated localizing NiMet alerts through translations into indigenous languages, disseminated via radio, town criers, and digital platforms like WhatsApp. He emphasized investment in green infrastructure—such as urban wetlands, rain gardens, and permeable roads—as sustainable flood control measures.
Additionally, he called for stricter enforcement of building codes, especially the demolition of illegal structures on waterways. He recommended building the capacity of indigenous youths in emergency response and establishing flood-resilient community hubs in coastal regions.
For individuals, the Elomgreenie founder urged citizens to stay informed, act early during flood alerts, and avoid risky routes. He warned against indiscriminate waste disposal in drainage channels, identifying it as a major cause of urban flooding.
“Anyone caught dumping waste should face stiff penalties, including fines and jail time. Such cases should be televised as deterrents,” he said.
Ondo State Response Plans
In Ondo State, the government’s response plan to the flash flood alerts includes deploying amphibious excavators and possibly demolishing obstructive structures along waterways.
Speaking recently with The Hope, Mr. Kinga Olumide, Administrative Secretary of the Ondo State Ministry of Environment, disclosed that the government had procured three amphibious excavators, strategically stationed in the northern, central, and southern senatorial districts to respond promptly to flood-prone areas.
“Two of the machines are currently operating in Akure — one at Enyalazis and the other at Ukea in the Ijoka axis of Akure South,” he said.
He added that following field inspections, the government discovered several buildings erected illegally along river channels, significantly contributing to the flooding. Such buildings have been marked for possible demolition, subject to necessary state approvals.
“If any structure obstructs natural water channels and endangers lives, we’ll seek the governor’s approval to pull it down.
“We urge residents to evacuate flood-prone areas when necessary and stop dumping refuse in drainages. Such actions only block water channels and worsen flooding and erosion problems,” he added.