The Ogun state government has issued a fresh flood alert as the second phase of the 2026 rainy season begins, warning residents in vulnerable communities to prepare for heavier rainfall expected this month.
Ola Oresanya, commissioner for environment, said Tuesday that NiMet’s seasonal climate prediction projects about 360mm of rainfall in Ogun during September, increasing the risk of river and coastal flooding in parts of the state.
Oresanya said prolonged rainfall, controlled overflow from Oyan Dam and tidal fluctuations could combine to slow the flow of the Ogun River, temporarily saturating wetlands and floodplains.
Residents of Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute, Warewa and parts of Abeokuta were advised to remain vigilant and relocate to safer areas where necessary.
The warning also covers coastal communities including Makun-Omi, Iwopin, Oni, Ifaara and Igele in Ogun Waterside, as well as Ebute-Imobi, Tungeji Island, Agosasa and communities along the Ilo and Iju rivers.
Fish farmers operating in floodplains and river corridors were also urged to harvest their stocks promptly to reduce potential losses.
On Thursday, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) organised a full-scale flood disaster response simulation exercise in Abeokuta, the state capital, for the south-western states.
Noimot Salako-Oyedele, deputy governor, commenced the synergy between the state government and NEMA, saying the collaboration has given the state leverage in its disaster management.
Salako-Oyedele said the government would continue monitoring rainfall and hydrological conditions with NiMet, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency and the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority.
She urged residents and local authorities to keep drainage channels clear and strengthen flood preparedness.
