Lagos, June 4, 2026 – The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) says it has stepped up flood preparedness measures across Lagos State, prioritising communities identified as highly vulnerable in the 2026 seasonal flood outlook.
The Head of Operations at NEMA’s Lagos Territorial Office, Mr Mohammed Olatunde, disclosed this while speaking on the agency’s readiness for the rainy season and ongoing efforts to reduce flood risks.
He noted that forecasts from the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) indicate that areas such as Badagry and Epe may experience heavy rainfall with potential flooding.
According to him, flash floods are also likely in parts of Alimosho, Ikeja, and Surulere due to intense rainfall, while Ikorodu and Isheri may face risks linked to possible water releases from the Oyan Dam.
Olatunde explained that NEMA has adopted a proactive disaster management strategy that includes targeted early warnings and intensified public awareness campaigns.
He said the agency ensures that technical weather and hydrological data are translated into simple messages and shared through WhatsApp groups, SMS alerts, and phone calls to community leaders in flood-prone areas.
“We are also carrying out grassroots sensitisation through our emergency management volunteers across Lagos State,” he said.
He added that NEMA is working closely with NIHSA to obtain weekly updates that help provide timely and accurate information to residents in at-risk locations.
Olatunde further stated that collaboration with the Lagos State Government, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), and the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources has been strengthened to improve flood response and mitigation.
He said joint efforts are focused on drainage maintenance, waste management, and public sensitisation to reduce flood vulnerability across the state.
According to him, clearing drainage channels remains a top priority, as they serve as the first line of defence against flooding, especially ahead of peak rainfall periods.
He also warned that indiscriminate waste disposal and construction on floodplains continue to worsen flooding incidents in Lagos.
Olatunde said relevant agencies are supporting enforcement actions to discourage such practices and promote environmental compliance.
He commended the Lagos State Government’s monthly environmental sanitation exercise, describing it as an important initiative for improving drainage flow and maintaining cleaner surroundings.
The exercise, held on the last Saturday of every month, encourages residents to clean their environments, clear drainage pathways, and ensure proper waste disposal for evacuation by the Lagos Waste Management Authority.
He urged residents to remain consistent in participating in sanitation activities, noting that collective effort is essential to reducing flood risks and preventing disease outbreaks across the state.