Korede Abdullah 
ABEOKUTA, Nigeria – The Ogun flood alert has been strengthened as the Ogun State Government urges residents living in flood-prone communities to relocate to safer areas ahead of the second phase of the 2026 rainy season, warning that heavy rainfall, dam overflow and tidal surges could trigger widespread flooding.
Commissioner for Environment Ola Oresanya issued the warning on Wednesday in Abeokuta, citing forecasts from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which projects about 360 millimetres of rainfall in September across the state.
According to Oresanya, prolonged rainfall, controlled releases from Oyan Dam, and rising tidal levels could significantly increase the risk of river and coastal flooding in vulnerable communities.
Communities placed on high alert include Isheri, Arepo, Mawere, Magboro, Akute, Warewa and parts of Abeokuta. The government also listed coastal settlements such as Makun-Omi, Iwopin, Oni, Ifaara, Igele, Ebute-Imobi, Tungeji Island and Agosasa, alongside communities situated along the Ilo and Iju rivers, as areas requiring heightened vigilance.
The commissioner advised residents in the affected communities to monitor official weather updates and comply with evacuation advisories where necessary to protect lives and property.
He also urged fish farmers operating in floodplains and river corridors, particularly in Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase and Ayegbami, to harvest their fish early to minimise losses if flooding occurs.
“The state government would continue to monitor weather forecasts and hydrological conditions in collaboration with NiMet, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority and other relevant stakeholders,” Oresanya said.
The commissioner noted that the first phase of the rainy season recorded relatively limited damage despite episodes of heavy rainfall and isolated flash floods.
He attributed the outcome to proactive government interventions, including sustained public awareness campaigns, routine clearing of drainage systems, maintenance of waterways and improved waste management efforts across the state.
According to him, authorities have prioritised maintenance work on major waterways, including the Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal and Ijamido rivers and streams, to improve water flow and reduce flood risks.
Meanwhile, the government’s relocation advisory has generated mixed reactions among residents, with some expressing concerns about relocating while others welcomed the early warning.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment and General Manager of the Ogun State Waste Management Authority, Akintunde Farook, urged residents to dispose of waste responsibly and support government measures aimed at preventing blocked drainage channels that often worsen flooding.
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Mirian Gom 
