The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has advised residents of Edo State, particularly those residing in flood-prone and low-lying areas, to move to safer locations in anticipation of intensified flooding in the coming months.

This advisory was issued on Thursday by the Edo State Commandant of the Corps, Mr. Gbenga Agun, through a statement released by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Efosa Ogbebor, in Benin City.

The warning is in response to projections from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), which forecast sustained heavy rainfall and flooding through September, with the possibility of it extending into October.

“We urge residents in vulnerable communities to take immediate steps to relocate. Acting early is crucial to safeguarding lives and property,” Commandant Agun said.

He explained that the alert is a precautionary move designed to mitigate the adverse effects of seasonal flooding, noting that the increasing rainfall recorded in July has significantly raised the flood risk.

“The intensity and frequency of rainfall this month alone underline the urgency of sensitisation efforts. At-risk communities must be properly informed and prepared,” he added.

In response, the NSCDC has mobilised its Disaster Management Unit and directed divisional officers in flood-endangered areas—such as Agenebode, Udaba, Anegbete, Ukpeko, Illushi, and Oji—to immediately launch public enlightenment campaigns.

Corps personnel have been assigned to educate the public on flood preparedness strategies, safe evacuation protocols, and loss prevention during emergencies.

Commandant Agun also appealed to traditional rulers, local government officials, and community leaders to support the corps in disseminating vital safety information and coordinating emergency response efforts.

“Our goal is to ensure no community is caught unprepared. We will continue working with all relevant stakeholders to reduce the impact of this threat,” he assured.