A civil society organisation, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), has raised concerns over the growing threat of flooding across Nigeria following a recent warning by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
Speaking in Lagos, HEDA’s Executive Director, Suleiman Arigbabu, said the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook released by NIHSA signals significant risks for communities and infrastructure nationwide.
He noted that the agency’s flood forecasts have historically proven reliable, with an accuracy rate of over 80 percent in recent years.
According to Arigbabu, the increasing frequency and intensity of rainfall—largely driven by climate change—are putting additional pressure on rivers and drainage systems, resulting in widespread flooding.
He explained that urban flooding is being worsened by human activities such as blocked drainage channels, poor waste management, and weak flood control systems.
Cities like Lagos and Port Harcourt he said, are particularly vulnerable due to indiscriminate waste disposal that clogs waterways and prevents proper water flow.
Arigbabu also highlighted environmental degradation as a major factor, pointing to the destruction of wetlands and rising deforestation, which reduce the land’s ability to absorb excess water.
He added that the failure to regularly maintain dams and drainage infrastructure has further reduced their capacity, making even moderate rainfall capable of triggering floods.
The HEDA director warned that the impact of flooding could extend beyond environmental damage to affect economic activities and government projects.
He cautioned that several capital projects planned under the 2026 national budget could face delays or damage due to heavy rainfall.
Beyond infrastructure, Arigbabu said flooding poses serious social risks, including displacement of residents, disruption of livelihoods, and increased outbreaks of waterborne diseases.
He also warned of potential food shortages, limited access to healthcare services, and heightened vulnerability among women and children.
To address these challenges, he called for stronger investment in infrastructure, improved environmental policies, and stricter enforcement of waste management practices.
Arigbabu urged both government authorities and citizens to adopt more responsible environmental habits to reduce the long-term impact of flooding in Nigeria.
