More than 18 million Nigerians could be exposed to severe flooding this year, according to a fresh warning from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA), which says the disaster could affect thousands of schools, healthcare facilities and farmlands across the country if urgent preventive measures are not taken.
The agency’s 2026 flood forecast estimates that over 2,000 hectares of farmland could be submerged, while about 8,794 educational facilities and 3,808 healthcare centres are at risk as heavy rains intensify across several parts of Nigeria.
NiHSA said communities along the River Niger and River Benue corridors are among the most vulnerable. States expected to face significant flooding include Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Bayelsa, Adamawa and Taraba, while flooding is also forecast in parts of the Federal Capital Territory and Makurdi.
The agency explained that the annual forecast is designed to help governments prepare ahead of time by strengthening emergency response systems, protecting vulnerable communities and reducing damage to critical infrastructure.
Despite repeated warnings over the years, NiHSA expressed concern that many state governments have failed to act on its forecasts. The agency said poor cooperation has weakened efforts to reduce flood risks, while a proposed National Flood Insurance Programme aimed at cushioning the economic impact of flooding has yet to be adopted by any state.
Officials stressed that while floods cannot be completely prevented, their impact can be significantly reduced through early planning, improved drainage, public awareness and stronger collaboration between federal, state and local authorities.
With parts of Nigeria already experiencing seasonal flooding, the agency is urging governments and residents in high-risk areas to take immediate precautionary measures before the situation worsens.
