The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria) has raised concern over heightened flooding and structural failure risks in several high-risk states across the country as rainfall activity intensifies in 2026.
The council warned that states such as Lagos, Benue, Enugu, Ebonyi, Ogun, Oyo, Nasarawa, Anambra, Kwara, Kebbi, Kaduna, Gombe and Taraba are expected to experience longer-than-normal rainy seasons, increasing exposure to flooding and infrastructure stress.
It further identified above-normal rainfall patterns in Borno, Sokoto, Kebbi, Kaduna, Enugu, Cross River, Abia, Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), warning that these conditions could worsen drainage pressure and trigger widespread flooding incidents.
At the same time, CORBON noted that several states including Oyo, Ogun, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Katsina, Kano, Kebbi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Sokoto, Yobe and Zamfara may experience severe dry spells, creating a dual climate challenge of drought stress and flash flooding risks when rains occur.
The advisory follows the review of the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (Nigerian Meteorological Agency), which indicated early to normal onset of rains, extended rainy seasons in several states, above-normal rainfall in key regions, and dry spells in others.
According to CORBON, these evolving weather conditions pose “heightened risks to buildings, infrastructure, and human safety across the country,” particularly in flood-prone and poorly drained communities.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by its Chairman, Bldr. Samson Ameh Opaluwah, the council said it was acting within its statutory mandate to prevent avoidable losses and strengthen resilience in the built environment during the 2026 rainy season.
CORBON urged property owners, estate developers, and facility managers in the high-risk states to intensify preventive maintenance, warning that neglect could worsen seasonal impacts.
It advised urgent repairs of roofing systems, including fixing loose sheets, damaged trusses and leaking joints, as well as clearing gutters and improving roof drainage.
The council also called for desilting of gutters, downpipes and estate drainage channels, alongside regrading of surfaces to direct stormwater away from buildings. It recommended flood barriers in low-lying and flood-prone estates.
On structural integrity, it advised inspection of foundations for cracks and erosion, stabilisation of waterlogged soil using appropriate materials, and monitoring of retaining walls for pressure buildup.
For electrical safety, CORBON recommended elevating generators and electrical panels above flood levels, waterproofing external wiring systems, and ensuring backup power for sump pumps.
It further advised sealing of windows and expansion joints, improving ventilation to prevent dampness, and using anti-mould treatments where necessary.
At the estate management level, the council urged the establishment of Rainy Season Preparedness Committees, staff training on emergency water diversion, and routine drainage inspections.
CORBON warned that blocked drains, poor maintenance, and neglected infrastructure significantly increase the risk of flooding and structural collapse.
“Preventive maintenance is far more cost-effective than emergency repairs,” the council stated.
The council also advised property owners and managers to engage only certified professionals for inspections and remedial works.
“For professional guidance, inspections, and implementation of this advisory, CORBON strongly encourages all property owners and estate managers to consult only Registered Builders certified by the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria,” it said.
It concluded with a public safety message: “Engage a Builder. Protect your investment. Safeguard your community.”
