The Ogun State Government has issued a fresh flood alert ahead of the second phase of the 2026 rainy season, urging residents in flood-prone communities to remain vigilant and relocate to safer areas where necessary.
The warning followed a forecast by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which listed Ogun among states expected to experience heavy rainfall during the year.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Ola Oresanya, the state government said the first phase of the rainy season, which lasted from mid-March to July, recorded intense rainfall and isolated cases of flash flooding across parts of the state.
However, the government said the impact was relatively minimal due to measures put in place to mitigate flooding.
According to Oresanya, the measures included sustained public awareness campaigns, regular maintenance of rivers, streams and drainage channels, as well as improvements in waste management services.
He said the government had paid particular attention to major river channels and waterways, including the Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal and Ijamido rivers and streams, among others.
Heavy Rainfall Expected in September
Oresanya said NiMet’s Seasonal Climate Prediction indicates that the second phase of the 2026 rainy season is expected to begin in September.
He said Ogun could experience intense rainfall averaging about 360mm during September, although rainfall in the inland areas of the state is expected to decline from October into early November.
The Commissioner warned, however, that prolonged rainfall during the period could increase the risk of both river and coastal flooding.
He identified possible controlled overflow from Oyan Dam and tidal fluctuations as additional factors that could affect the flow of the Ogun River and increase flood risks in vulnerable areas.
According to him, the combined effect could temporarily saturate wetlands and floodplains, potentially leading to flooding in communities located around such areas.
Communities on Alert
The government specifically advised residents of Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute and Warewa, as well as parts of Abeokuta, to remain vigilant and relocate to safer locations where necessary.
The warning also covers several coastal communities, including Makun-Omi, Iwopin, Oni, Ifaara and Igele in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area; Ebute-Imobi in Ijebu East; Tungeji Island and Agosasa in Ipokia; and communities located along the floodplains of the Ilo and Iju Rivers.
The Commissioner also urged fish farmers operating within floodplains and river corridors to harvest their stocks promptly to minimise potential losses in the event of flooding.
He specifically advised fish farmers in Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase and Ayegbami, as well as those in other vulnerable communities, to act on the warning without delay.
Government Intensifies Preparedness
Oresanya called on Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Local Government Authorities, emergency response organisations, community leaders and other stakeholders to intensify flood-response measures.
He urged relevant authorities to regularly monitor vulnerable locations and ensure that drainage channels remain free of obstructions.
Community leaders were also encouraged to strengthen public awareness campaigns and ensure residents receive timely information on potential flood risks.
The Commissioner stressed that early warnings and prompt action remain critical to reducing the impact of flooding.
He said the state government would continue to monitor weather forecasts and hydrological conditions in collaboration with NiMet, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority and other relevant agencies.
Oresanya assured residents that the government would sustain efforts to minimise the impact of flooding across the state.
He also commended residents for their cooperation with government measures, which he said contributed to the relatively low impact recorded during the first phase of the rainy season.
The Commissioner urged residents to take the latest advisory seriously and remain attentive to further updates from the government and relevant emergency agencies.
