Khadijah Shehu Abdulkareem
The Federal Ministry of Environment has raised an alarm over impending floods in seven states following a rise in water levels along the River Niger.
In a statement issued by the Director of the Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management Department, Mr. Usman Bokani, the Ministry warned that at least 29 communities across Benue, Borno, Gombe, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, and Yobe states are at risk of flooding.
According to Mr. Bokani, communities on the floodplains stretching from Jebba to Lokoja should prepare for possible evacuation as water levels continue to rise.
“In addition to the flood prediction of August 20, the following locations and their environs are likely to witness heavy rainfall that may lead to flooding within the prediction period: August 23–24, 2025,” the statement read.
Communities at Risk:
• Benue: Abinsi, Makurdi, Agyo, Gbajimba, Gogo, Mbapa, Otobi, Otukpo, Udoma, Ukpiam
• Borno: Briyel, Dikwa, Maiduguri
• Gombe: Bajoga, Gombe, Dogon Ruwa, Nafada
• Kebbi: Gwandu, Jega, Kamba
• Nasarawa: Keffi, Keana, Agima, Odogbo, Rukubi
• Niger: Lapai
• Yobe: Gashua, Gasma, Potiskum
The Ministry urged residents, state governments, and relevant agencies to remain on high alert, adopt proactive safety measures, and promptly report any flood-related incidents to local emergency services.
This advisory comes as part of government’s ongoing flood monitoring and response efforts, with authorities emphasizing the need for early action to minimize potential loss of lives and property.