Kogi on Flood Alert as NiHSA Warns of Rising River Levels Across 15 States

Kogi State has been placed on a high flood-risk alert by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA), with the warning covering September 19 to 25 as rising river levels raise concerns over possible riverine flooding across vulnerable communities.

The alert, designated NFA-2026-262, is part of a seven-day flood advisory covering 15 states, including Kogi, as the agency monitors rising water levels and the possibility of flooding in communities located along vulnerable waterways and floodplains.

NiHSA Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Umar Mohammed, said nine river stations had been identified for close monitoring as hydrological conditions continue to evolve.

For Kogi, the warning is particularly significant because of the state’s extensive riverine environment and communities located around major waterways, including areas along the River Niger and its tributaries.

NiHSA Warns Kogi Communities to Prepare

The hydrological agency has urged state governments, local government councils, emergency management authorities, traditional institutions and community leaders in affected areas to take immediate precautionary measures.

Residents living in flood-prone communities have also been advised to prepare for possible movement to safer and higher ground if water levels begin to rise significantly.

The warning comes at a time when flooding remains a recurring threat to communities and infrastructure in parts of Kogi State, particularly during periods of elevated river levels and intense rainfall.

Residents can also monitor NiHSA’s flood forecast dashboard for updates on hydrological conditions and official flood warnings.

Residents Warned Against Crossing Flooded Roads

NiHSA advised people in vulnerable areas to avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges and fast-moving water, whether on foot or in vehicles.

The agency also urged communities to activate local early-warning and emergency response mechanisms so that residents can receive timely information if conditions deteriorate.

State and local authorities were encouraged to pre-position relief materials, safe drinking water, water-treatment supplies and first-aid materials in locations that could serve communities affected by flooding.

Authorities were further advised to identify and prepare safe shelters that could be used for temporary evacuation if necessary.

Flood Risk Could Affect Homes, Farms and Infrastructure

NiHSA said significant populations and critical infrastructure are exposed to flood risks across the affected states, underscoring the need for early action before water levels become dangerous.

The agency’s advisory comes as Kogi continues to deal with a range of development and infrastructure challenges across its communities. Recent state government plans have included major infrastructure projects and interventions intended to improve connectivity and economic activity across the state.

In a recent development, the Kogi State Executive Council approved a series of infrastructure, agriculture and development measures, including projects expected to affect communities across the state.

Flooding could potentially disrupt transportation, agricultural activities, businesses and access to public facilities in vulnerable locations if preventive measures are not taken early.

NiHSA Calls for Clearing of Blocked Drainage Channels

The agency also advised residents and communities to clear blocked drainage channels and river outlets where it is safe to do so.

It warned against construction or habitation in vulnerable floodplain areas, stressing that early preparation and compliance with official flood warnings could help reduce the potential loss of lives, property and livelihoods.

For communities already exposed to environmental and infrastructure pressures, the latest warning highlights the importance of maintaining drainage systems and keeping waterways free from avoidable obstructions.

Kogi Residents Urged to Take Flood Warnings Seriously

NiHSA urged residents to move people, livestock and valuable belongings to safer locations where necessary and to remain attentive to further updates from the agency.

Residents should also avoid taking unnecessary risks around swollen rivers, flooded bridges and rapidly moving water, particularly where the depth or strength of the current cannot be determined.

The warning is also relevant to agricultural communities whose farms, livestock and stored produce could be exposed to rising water levels.

Kogi remains a major agricultural state, and the state government has recently pursued initiatives aimed at increasing agricultural production and value addition, including plans for a cashew processing plant to strengthen agricultural value addition.

Agency to Continue Monitoring River Levels

NiHSA said it would continue monitoring hydrological conditions and river levels across the affected areas and issue further advisories where necessary.

The agency’s seven-day warning covers Kogi alongside Imo, Cross River, Ebonyi, Benue, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Rivers, Edo, Taraba, Delta, Bayelsa, Enugu and Abia.

As the September 19–25 forecast period continues, residents in vulnerable parts of Kogi are advised to remain alert, follow official instructions and make early preparations rather than wait until floodwaters become dangerous.

The Bureau Journal will continue to monitor developments relating to flooding and other emergencies affecting communities across Kogi State.

For readers following developments in the state, Kogi NYSC kidnapping and security developments, the recent attacks along the Itobe-Achigili-Anyigba highway, and other major Kogi security stories remain part of the wider picture of challenges facing communities across the state.