The Ogun State Government has issued a new flood alert for riverbank and wetland communities. Residents are urged to prepare for possible flooding between October 20 and November 3, 2025.
Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, said the alert follows the controlled release of water from the Oyan Dam. He explained that heavy rainfall in northern Nigeria increased water levels at the dam. Rising tidal levels could worsen the situation, he warned.
Communities Urged to Relocate or Elevate Homes
“Residents are advised to exercise caution and avoid loss of lives and property as the overflow becomes inevitable,” Oresanya said. He urged residents near the Ogun River to move away from riverbanks. Those living in wetlands should relocate to higher ground or raise their homes temporarily.
Flood-prone communities include Akute, Alagbole, Isheri, Magboro, Makogi, Orimerunmu, Iro, Kajola, and parts of Abeokuta. The affected Abeokuta areas are Lafenwa, Enugada, Adedotun, Iberekodo, Akin-Olugbade, and Ago-Odo.
Government Intensifies Dredging and Flood Management Efforts
Oresanya said the state government, in partnership with the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, continues dredging waterways. The aim is to improve water flow and reduce flooding in vulnerable areas.
He noted that Oyan Dam’s discharge rate is lower than last year’s. “In 2025, the dam released 12,000 million litres daily, compared to 17,000 million litres in 2024,” he stated. The commissioner said this improvement shows the government’s “painstaking management of flood risks.”
‘Natural Forces Still Pose Challenges,’ Says Oresanya
Oresanya admitted that natural forces still threaten flood prevention efforts. “The government’s measures cannot fully stop natural occurrences,” he said. Ogun, being a coastal state, faces the full impact of climate change.
He assured residents that the situation is under control. According to him, water levels should drop within ten days once the controlled release ends. He appealed for calm, vigilance, and cooperation among residents.
Fish Farmers Advised to Harvest Early to Prevent Losses
Oresanya urged fish farmers in flood-prone zones to harvest early. He said Ogun’s position as a natural outlet for northern water flow increases its vulnerability. He stressed that personal safety measures remain vital to prevent damage to lives and property.
Red Cross Launches Flood Preparedness Clubs in Gombe
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Red Cross Society has urged schools in Gombe State to improve flood preparedness. The state branch secretary, Murtala Aliyu, made the call during the launch of disaster risk reduction clubs.
The initiative, supported by the Italian government and IFRC, aims to protect schoolchildren from disasters. Aliyu said recurring floods in Billiri and Yamaltu-Deba councils this year highlight the urgent need for preparedness.
Conclusion: Ogun Flood Alert Calls for Immediate Action
With the Ogun flood alert now active, the government urges residents and farmers to stay alert and follow safety measures. The controlled release from Oyan Dam aims to prevent widespread flooding. Officials, however, warn that community vigilance is key as Ogun faces growing climate challenges.
