The Ogun State Government has issued a fresh flood alert ahead of the second phase of the 2026 rainy season, advising residents in vulnerable communities to remain vigilant and relocate to safer locations where necessary. The warning followed a forecast by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) identifying Ogun among states expected to experience heavy rainfall during the year.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Ola Oresanya, the state government said the first phase of the rainy season, which ran from mid-March to July, witnessed intense rainfall and isolated flash floods in some parts of the state, but with comparatively minimal impact.
Oresanya attributed the modest impact to the proactive measures adopted by the government, including sustained public awareness and education, regular maintenance of rivers, streams and drainage channels, as well as improvements in waste management services. He said particular attention had been given to major river channels and waterways, including Sokori River and its tributaries, Opa-Aro, Adiyan, Eruwuru, Yemule, Gbogidi Canal and Ijamido rivers and streams, among others.
According to him, NiMet’s Seasonal Climate Prediction indicates that the second phase of the 2026 rainy season is expected to commence in September, with the state projected to experience intense rainfall averaging about 360mm during the month. He added that rainfall in inland parts of the state was expected to decline from October into early November.
The Commissioner, however, warned that the period could bring river and coastal flooding to some parts of the state due to prolonged rainfall, controlled overflow from Oyan Dam and tidal fluctuations, which could impede the flow velocity of the Ogun River. He explained that the combined effect could result in temporary oversaturation of wetlands and floodplains, increasing the risk of flooding in vulnerable communities.