NiMet forecasts heavy September rainfall as government warns communities in flood-prone areas
The Ogun State Government has issued a fresh flood alert ahead of the second phase of the 2026 rainy season, urging residents in vulnerable communities to remain vigilant and relocate to safer areas where necessary.
Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, said the warning followed a forecast by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which projects about 360mm of rainfall in Ogun in September.
He warned that prolonged rainfall, controlled releases from Oyan Dam and tidal fluctuations could increase the risk of river and coastal flooding.
Residents in Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute, Warewa and parts of Abeokuta were advised to exercise caution. Coastal communities in Ogun Waterside, Ijebu East and Ipokia, as well as areas along the Ilo and Iju rivers, were also placed on alert.
Oresanya advised fish farmers operating around floodplains to harvest their stocks promptly to minimise potential losses.
He said the government would continue monitoring weather and hydrological conditions with NiMet, NIHSA, the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority and other agencies.
Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment and General Manager of the state Waste Management Authority, Akintunde Farook, urged residents to improve their waste disposal habits and avoid blocking drainage channels.
The government also called on community leaders and relevant agencies to intensify flood awareness and response measures.