The Federal Government has warned residents in parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and neighbouring states of Kaduna, Niger and Nasarawa to brace for potential flooding, as heavy rainfall threatens high-risk communities.
The National Flood Early Warning System (FEWS), a unit under the Federal Ministry of Environment, issued the alert on Thursday, cautioning residents to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of loss of life and property.
According to FEWS, flood-prone areas in the FCT include: Asokoro, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Damagaza, Garki 1 and 2, Guzape, Wuse 1 and 2, Gwarinpa, Nyanya, the Central Business District (CBD), and Kubwa.
In Niger state, areas likely to be affected include Suleja, Mashegu, Sarkin Pawa, and Rijau, while in Nasarawa State, high-risk areas include: Mararaba, Gidan Rogo, Wamba, Agima, Rukubi and Odogbo.
In Kaduna, Zaria, Jaji, Kauru, Kachia, and Buruku, residents have been advised to stay alert.
The unit warned that the locations listed will likely witness heavy rainfall that may lead to flooding between 31 July and 4 August.
In response, the acting Director-General of the Federal Emergency Management Department (FEMD), AbdulRahman Mohammed, said he has placed the Department’s Search and Rescue Team on ‘red alert’ to forestall the loss of life in the event of heavy floods.
Mohammed also appealed to residents not to drive or wade into a pool of water. He urged residents to avoid walking or driving through flooded areas and advised them to clear drains around their premises. “Please wait for the water to recede or use an alternative route. Please clear your drains to ensure free flow of water”, he advised.
The listed areas have all experienced recurring flood disasters in recent years, largely driven by a combination of extreme weather, poor drainage, and unregulated construction on floodplains.
In Abuja, urban districts like Garki, Wuse, Nyanya, and Gwarinpa have seen repeated flash floods, often worsened by blocked drains and building violations that obstruct natural water channels.
Nasarawa State has also faced some of the country’s most devastating floods. Health agencies have flagged growing concerns over waterborne diseases in affected camps for the displaced.
In Niger State, flooding in 2025 has already claimed hundreds of lives. In Mokwa, a major flood in May claimed over 150 lives, displaced at least 3,018 people, and 265 houses were completely destroyed. Other vulnerable communities like Suleja and Sarkin Pawa have faced similar destruction due to dam releases and poor flood management.
