Flooding in Nigeria: How to Prepare, Stay Safe and Recover

Every rainy season, floods destroy homes and farms across Nigeria. A little preparation protects your family, your documents and your property.

🌧️ Before the rains

1. Know your riskFind out if your area floods. Follow warnings from NIHSA (Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency), NiMet and your state emergency agency.
2. Clear drainsBlocked gutters are a major cause of urban flooding. Never dump refuse in drains.
3. Protect documentsKeep certificates, IDs and land papers in waterproof bags — and photos of them in your phone or email.
4. Raise valuablesPut electronics, food and important items on high shelves or upper floors.
5. Plan an exitAgree where your family will go if water rises, and how you will reach each other.

🎒 Emergency bag

• Drinking water and dry food for 2–3 days
• Torch, power bank and spare batteries
• Medicines and a first-aid kit
• Copies of documents in a waterproof bag
• Some cash, a change of clothes and important phone numbers

🚨 During a flood

🧹 After the water goes down

• Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Don’t drink tap or well water until it has been treated or boiled.
• Throw away food that touched flood water.
• Clean and disinfect everything the water touched.
• Watch for cholera, diarrhoea and malaria — see a health worker if you feel unwell.
• Take photos of damage for insurance or relief support.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do when a flood warning is issued?

Move valuables and documents to higher places, prepare an emergency bag, follow official updates and be ready to move to higher ground with your family.

Is it safe to walk through flood water?

No. Moving water can knock you down, hide open drains and carry diseases or electric current. Avoid it whenever possible.

Who do I call during a flood emergency?

Call 112 for emergencies and contact your State Emergency Management Agency.

Written by the askJBoss team from public information and our own research; last updated November 2026. Prices, dates and rules change — always confirm with the official source. Spotted something that has changed? Tell us in the comments.