THE Federal Government has issued a fresh flood alert to nine northern states, warning that heavy rainfall between August 25 and 29, 2025 could trigger devastating floods in several communities.
The warning was contained in a circular signed by Usman Abdullahi Bokani, Director, Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management Department, Federal Ministry of Environment, made available to News Point Nigeria in Abuja on Monday.
According to the statement, the National Flood Early Warning Center (FEW Center) identified Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara States as high-risk areas, with several towns placed on red alert.
Bokani explained that the listed communities fall within regions most vulnerable to heavy rainfall, adding that the floods could occur if proactive measures are not taken.
He further urged stakeholders across the affected states to remain vigilant and provide immediate feedback on emerging situations.
“The listed states and towns are predicted to experience intense rainfall that may lead to flooding within the period under review.
Stakeholders on the Center’s platform are enjoined to update us with reports on unfolding situations in their respective locations,” the circular stated.
The flood alert specifically named communities across the affected states:
Adamawa State: Mubi, Shelleng, Abba-Kumbo
Katsina State: Katsina town, Kaita, Bindawa
Jigawa State: Gwaram
Gombe State: Nafada
Borno State: Ngala
Kano State: Sumaila
Zamfara State: Anka
Sokoto State: Makira
Bauchi State: Azare and Jama’are
Notably, Adamawa and Katsina States were identified as carrying the highest number of towns at risk, making them the most vulnerable during the prediction period.
The new alert comes just a week after the FEW Center warned of possible flooding in towns across seven other northern states. At the time, residents of flood-prone communities along the River Niger floodplain from Jebba to Lokoja were advised to evacuate due to rising water levels.
Despite these warnings, reports suggest that many state environmental agencies and residents have continued to downplay the risk, leaving vulnerable communities exposed to the potential disaster.
The Federal Ministry of Environment urged citizens, especially those living in low-lying areas, to remain alert, avoid blocked drainage channels, and prepare for possible evacuation if water levels rise.
Bokani stressed that proactive measures and early community responses could minimize loss of lives and property.
“Flooding is a recurring disaster, but its impact can be mitigated if citizens and authorities heed warnings on time,” he said.