By Atoyebi Nike
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that 20 states may face severe flash floods in July. States listed include Lagos, Sokoto, Benue, Kaduna, Edo, and Yobe. The agency attributed the risk to increased rainfall.
NiMet urged residents in vulnerable areas to relocate. It also advised them to clear drainage systems and prepare emergency kits.
The warning came after major floods hit Ondo State over the weekend. The flood damaged homes in Owo, Okitipupa, Ilaje, and Ese Odo local government areas.
A resident of Okitipupa, Mr. Joshua Jemiloni, said the flooding came from erosion and the overflowing Igodan stream. He said at least 10 houses were affected.
Owo Council Chairman, Tope Omolayo, called for immediate help. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa promised more dredging and better enforcement of environmental rules.
Despite the federal release of ₦622 billion in ecological funds since 2012, critics say the money has not prevented disasters. According to SBM Intelligence, floods since July 2024 have displaced 1.2 million Nigerians. They also destroyed 180,000 hectares of farmland in 31 states.
Afolabi Abiodun, President of the Africa Environmental Health Organisation, said most states lack visible flood defences. “Funds should build resilience,” he said. “Instead, we see panic reactions and weak preparation.”
Nathaniel Atebije, ex-president of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, blamed the federal government for failing to build a dam agreed with Cameroon. The dam would have helped manage River Benue’s overflow.
Environmental expert Hakeem Mukhtar said many communities still lack drainage systems and local climate plans. “The issue is governance, not funding,” he said.
Climate researcher Abeeb Ajagbe added that ecological funds are poorly tracked. “We need transparency. What we have now is not working,” he said.
A May report by StatiSense revealed that flooding affected over 116,000 people across 12 states. Zamfara, Lagos, and Kwara were worst hit.
Experts warn that without better planning and stronger oversight, floods will continue to destroy lives and property across Nigeria.
