Lagos Orders Evacuation From Eti-Osa, Kirikiri, Other Flood-Prone Communities

Residents Urged to Move to Higher Ground as Fresh Seven-Day Flood Alert Takes Effect
The Lagos State Government has directed residents living in flood-prone communities to temporarily relocate to higher ground following a fresh seven-day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, issued the directive in a statement released by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina, on Monday in Lagos.
Wahab said the latest alert covers Lagos and 14 other states, warning that rising river levels could trigger flooding in vulnerable communities.
According to the alert, potential flooding could affect critical facilities including schools, healthcare centres, markets, farms and places of worship.
Areas Listed as Vulnerable
The commissioner identified several locations across Lagos requiring heightened vigilance, including Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B, among others.
He urged residents in affected communities to take precautionary measures before floodwaters rise.
“When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” Wahab said.
He advised residents in flood-prone locations to move to higher ground and remain there until the peak of the resurgent rainy season has passed.
Wahab explained that Lagos typically experiences a second phase of the rainy season from September, bringing increased rainfall, rising water levels and tidal influences.
Ogun River Communities on High Alert
The commissioner also called for heightened caution among communities located along the Ogun River and other major waterways.
He specifically mentioned Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto and parts of Agboyi as areas requiring increased vigilance.
Residents in those locations and other settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin were advised to remain on high alert from September 19 to September 25.
Wahab said upstream rainfall and rising water levels could affect downstream communities, making early preparation essential.
Government Intensifies Flood Monitoring
The Lagos State Government said it has intensified monitoring across riverine, low-lying and other flood-prone communities.
Residents living close to rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other water bodies were urged to monitor official flood forecasts and comply with safety advisories.
The government also advised affected communities to prepare for temporary relocation if flooding becomes imminent.
Wahab said the state would continue working with relevant federal agencies to monitor river levels, rainfall patterns and other hydrological developments.
He added that routine cleaning, maintenance and monitoring of drainage infrastructure across Lagos would continue as part of efforts to reduce the impact of flooding.
The commissioner further urged residents to stop indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drains, canals and waterways, warning that blocked drainage systems can worsen flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.