The Federal Government has urged Nigerians to urgently prepare for possible flooding as the rainy season intensifies, warning that changing climate conditions have significantly affected rainfall patterns across the country and increased flood risks in several regions.
The warning was issued on Wednesday by the Special Assistant to the President on Climate Change Matters, Yussuf Kelani, who called for stronger preparedness by governments, communities and individuals, especially following recent flooding incidents recorded in Lagos and other parts of the country.
In a statement released in Abuja, Kelani said climate change has shifted from a future concern to a present challenge that demands coordinated national response.
He explained that rainfall patterns are now more unpredictable, with shorter but heavier downpours that often overwhelm drainage systems, damage infrastructure and displace residents in affected areas.
Kelani added that scientific evidence shows rising global temperatures are increasing atmospheric moisture, resulting in more intense rainfall, flooding, erosion, desertification and drought in different parts of Nigeria.
He noted that recent flooding in Lagos, which caused property damage, disrupted businesses and displaced families, highlights the growing vulnerability of urban centres to climate-related disasters.
The presidential aide warned that flood risks extend beyond Lagos, affecting communities along major river basins as well as states across the North-Central, South-South, South-East, parts of the North-West and coastal regions.
He urged residents in flood-prone areas to take early precautionary measures, stressing that delays in preparation could worsen the impact of flooding.
Kelani also called on state governments, local councils, traditional rulers and community leaders to step up awareness campaigns, inspect drainage infrastructure and activate emergency response plans ahead of peak rainfall periods.
He further advised Nigerians to adopt environmentally responsible habits such as proper waste disposal, clearing blocked drainages, tree planting and paying attention to weather forecasts and flood warnings.
According to him, Nigeria can reduce the impact of flooding by investing in better drainage systems, early warning mechanisms, urban planning reforms and environmental protection measures, drawing lessons from countries already managing similar challenges.
Kelani stressed that while flooding may not always be completely avoidable, its impact can be significantly reduced through planning, preparedness and stronger institutions.
He also emphasized the importance of climate education, noting that many people still do not fully understand how human activities, poor drainage and environmental neglect contribute to flooding.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to implementing key climate policies under its national development agenda, including climate adaptation and energy transition programmes.
Kelani, however, cautioned that government efforts alone are not enough, stressing the need for collective responsibility in tackling climate-related risks as Nigeria moves deeper into the rainy season.
