Lagos State is the most flood-prone in the southwest, according to the 2025 Nigeria hazard risk countrywide analysis conducted by the National Emergency Management Agency in partnership with UNICEF.
The report showed that Lagos State faces the highest risk due to its coastal and urban vulnerabilities.
“Lagos State is the most flood-prone in the South West, with significant coastal flooding affecting Lagos Island, and Lekki. Riverine flooding impacts areas such as Isolo, Mushin, and Surulere, while flash floods are common in densely populated regions like Ikeja and Apapa. Poor drainage systems and rapid urbanisation contribute to severe flooding and infrastructure damage.
“Overall, in the South West, Lagos faces the highest risk due to its coastal and urban vulnerabilities, while the other states experience moderate risks from riverine and flash floods, with significant impacts on local communities, infrastructure, and livelihoods.”
It, however, said flooding in the South West is less extreme compared to other regions of Nigeria.
It noted that flood vulnerability varies across Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti, Oyo, and Ondo states, with certain local areas particularly affected by riverine, flash, and coastal floods.
“In Oyo state, riverine flooding impacts communities near the River Ogun, including Ibadan North, Ibadan South, and Oyo East. Specific areas such as Isheri are notably affected, especially by the release of water from the Oyo dam.
“Ogun state faces riverine flooding along River Ogun, affecting Abeokuta North, Abeokuta South, and Ifo. Flash floods are more common in urban areas like Ota, and Ijebu Ode. Communities such as Agbado, Alagbole, and Akinyele are also vulnerable due to rapid runoff and poor drainage. Ondo State experiences riverine flooding in areas like Akure South, Owo, and Ose.
“Flash floods are prevalent in Hollywood areas such as Ifedore and Akure North. Coastal flooding impacts areas like Image, which are affected by high tides and storm surges from the Atlantic Ocean,” it stated.
It added that Osun State is prone to riverine flooding along the River Osun, with vulnerable areas including Osorio, Ilesa, and Ife.
“Flash floods can occur in urban areas such as Ile-Ife and Ilesa East due to inadequate drainage systems. Ekiti state faces riverine flooding near the River Ero, affecting Ado-Ekiti, Ikere, and Ilesa. Rural areas like Ekiti East and Moba are also prone to flash floods due to the hilling terrain, and poor drainage,” it said.
According to the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, flooding affects 80-95 per cent of Nigeria’s states at various levels, including riverine, flash, and coastal flooding, impacting areas bordering the river Niger and Benue; and coastal zones of the South-South.
“Epidemic diseases, notably cholera, and measles, present ongoing public health threats; cholera is endemic across several regions, and measles persists despite vaccine availability.
“Additionally, new cases of heavy metal poisoning in Zamfara and Sokoto emphasize the need for specific response measures. This report provides critical insights, enabling policymakers to strengthen preparedness and resilience against these risks,” she said.
