Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria — The Lagos State Government has directed residents in flood-prone and low-lying communities to temporarily relocate to higher ground following a fresh seven-day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA).
The alert, covering September 19 to 25, affects Lagos and 14 other states, with the state government warning residents not to wait for floodwaters to rise before taking precautionary measures.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, identified Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B among areas requiring heightened vigilance.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina, Wahab also listed Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto, parts of Agboyi and settlements downstream of Isheri Olofin among communities that should remain on high alert.
The commissioner urged residents living close to rivers, lagoons, wetlands, drainage channels and other waterways to take early action.
“When the signs point to danger, the safest decision is to move early. No property is worth risking a life,” Wahab said.
He warned that rising river levels could disrupt schools, healthcare centres, markets, farms and places of worship.
Communities along the Ogun River and other major waterways were also advised to exercise extra caution during the alert period.
The state government said it had intensified monitoring of riverine, low-lying and other flood-prone communities in collaboration with relevant federal agencies.
Wahab urged local governments, emergency agencies, community leaders and residents to activate early-warning and emergency response measures.
He said residents should be prepared to move people, livestock and valuables to safer locations where necessary.
The commissioner also advised residents against dumping refuse in drains and waterways, warning that blocked drainage channels could worsen flooding.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Hope Ajayi 