Documentation of Flood Events and Meteorological Triggers in Lokoja, Kogi State

Lokoja, situated at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers in Kogi State, represents one of Nigeria's most chronically flood-prone urban centers, experiencing recurring inundation with significant humanitarian consequences. This study documents major flood events in Lokoja between 2018 and 2023 and identifies the primary meteorological triggers associated with each episode, drawing on rainfall records, river gauge data, and NiMet storm reports. A case study approach was adopted, with qualitative field interviews conducted with 80 flood-affected residents across four wards supplemented by analysis of satellite-derived rainfall estimates from the CHIRPS dataset. Findings indicate that the most severe flood events in Lokoja are associated with simultaneous upstream catchment saturation, above-normal seasonal rainfall totals exceeding 1,400 millimetres, and release of excess water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon. The study demonstrates that local rainfall alone accounts for only 30 percent of flood peak discharge variability, underscoring the transboundary dimension of flood risk in the city. Documentation of community early warning systems reveals significant gaps in information dissemination and evacuation coordination. The study recommends establishment of a bilateral hydrological information-sharing protocol between Nigeria and Cameroon, alongside community flood mapping exercises supported by NiMet advisory outputs. Keywords: flood, Lokoja, rainfall, Lagdo Dam, early warning.