FG Raises Flood Red Alert for Nine Northern States

The Federal Government, through the National Flood Early Warning Centre of the Ministry of Environment, has issued a flood red alert to nine states in Northern Nigeria. The advisory warns of possible heavy flooding expected between August 25 and 29, 2025, due to continuous rainfall patterns across the region.

According to an official circular signed by Usman Abdullahi Bokani, Director of the Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management Department, residents in several northern states have been urged to stay alert, prepare early, and report any emergency cases immediately.

The states highlighted in the alert include Bauchi, Gombe, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Borno, and Adamawa. These states are projected to experience significant downpours capable of overflowing rivers, streams, and drainage channels, which may cause widespread flooding in communities.

The circular noted:

“Certain northern settlements are likely to witness heavy rainfall that could result in flooding within the period of August 25 to 29, 2025. We strongly call on all stakeholders on the Centre’s platform to closely monitor the situation and provide feedback on any developments in their respective states.”

Towns and Locations Under Flood Watch

The report revealed that Adamawa and Katsina States recorded the highest number of towns placed on the watchlist. In Adamawa, the at-risk towns include Mubi, Shelleng, and Abba-Kumbo, while in Katsina, the state capital, Kaita, and Bindawa were identified as vulnerable areas.

Other listed towns under surveillance are:

• Gwaram in Jigawa
• Nafada in Gombe
• Ngala in Borno
• Sumaila in Kano
• Anka in Zamfara
• Makira in Sokoto
• Azare and Jama’are in Bauchi

Bokani stressed that these communities remain highly exposed due to their proximity to rivers and poor drainage systems.

Previous Warnings and Urgent Precautions

This is not the first time the Flood Early Warning Centre has issued alerts to northern states. Earlier this year, similar warnings were raised across seven northern states, urging communities along the River Niger flood plains to evacuate due to rising water levels.

Experts have emphasized that the growing impact of climate change is one of the major drivers of flooding in Nigeria, with unpredictable rainfall patterns and rising river levels threatening more communities. The Federal Government has therefore called on state governments, emergency agencies, and residents to adopt proactive measures such as clearing blocked drainage channels, relocating from flood-prone areas, and following official safety advisories.

Flooding in Nigeria has historically caused severe humanitarian crises, including loss of lives, destruction of farmlands, displacement of households, and outbreaks of waterborne diseases. With this red alert, citizens are urged to prioritize safety and preparedness.