Lagos has been named one of the states most at risk of severe flooding in 2025.
EpeInsights reports that the Federal Government gave the warning during the official presentation of the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) in Abuja on Thursday.
The report identified Lagos, alongside Abia, Benue, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Jigawa, as states expected to bear the brunt of climate-induced flooding in the coming months. The densely populated coastal megacity is especially vulnerable due to its low-lying topography, rapid urban development, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
Speaking at the unveiling, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, described flooding as one of Nigeria’s most destructive natural disasters, made worse by the growing impact of climate change. He emphasized that Lagos, with its large population and critical infrastructure, requires urgent attention and proactive measures.
“Lagos is a priority in our flood preparedness strategy. The potential for widespread disruption in communities, transportation, and economic activities makes it imperative that early warning systems are not only accurate but also effectively communicated,” Utsev stated.
Nationwide, 1,249 communities across 176 local government areas fall within high-risk flood zones, with another 2,187 communities in 293 LGAs expected to face moderate flooding. Lagos, home to millions and a key driver of Nigeria’s economy, stands at the forefront of this looming crisis.
To improve preparedness, NIHSA announced a community-based flood prediction system that will provide hyper-local forecasts, allowing residents and authorities in flood-prone areas—especially urban centers like Lagos—to take timely action.
The government also unveiled several new interventions, including:
- The National Flood Insurance Programme (NFIP) – A pilot scheme, initially rolling out in Kogi and Jigawa, to offer financial protection for homes, farms, and livestock.
- The Integrated Climate Resilience Innovation Project (I-CRIP) – Aimed at enhancing food and water security through climate-smart technologies.
- The NigerFLOOD Project – A long-term initiative focusing on flood control infrastructure and river basin management.
As Lagos braces for the rainy season, experts urge residents to remain vigilant, clear drainage systems, and follow official updates closely. The state government is also expected to intensify efforts in urban planning enforcement, waste management, and public awareness to reduce the flood impact.
In a city where water is both a resource and a threat, 2025 could test Lagos’s resilience like never before.
