Flood alert: HEDA warns of rising national risks

The Executive Director of Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA), Mr. Suleiman Arigbabu, has warned of rising national risks due to the recent flood alert by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).

Arigbabu gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos.

He said the forecast reflects historical trends, noting the agency’s predictions have recorded over 80 percent accuracy in recent years.

He attributed flooding to climate change and human activities, warning that the crisis will persist without urgent intervention.

Arigbabu also explained that the increased rainfall intensity and frequency are causing rivers to overflow, leading to flash floods and widespread inundation.

He identified poor drainage systems and weak flood management as major contributors to urban flooding. He added that indiscriminate waste disposal continues to block drainage channels in cities such as Lagos and Port Harcourt.

Arigbabu decried the destruction of wetlands, noting their critical role in absorbing excess water and reducing flood impact.

He also highlighted deforestation as a factor, reducing the land’s natural ability to manage water flow. According to him, failure to desilt dams and drainage systems has reduced their capacity, making even moderate rainfall cause flooding.

He then urged government and citizens to change attitudes to reduce flooding and its impacts.