The FCT Stakeholders Forum for Development, comprising landlords, business owners and investors, has urged the Federal Capital Territory Administration to take urgent measures to tackle recurring flooding across Abuja.
Speaking at a press conference, the forum’s chairman, Chief David Kente, said recent floods had submerged homes, cut off roads and disrupted livelihoods. He attributed the worsening situation to rapid urban expansion, blocked drainage systems, indiscriminate waste disposal and the removal of drainage covers by scavengers.
The group said flooding in Abuja predates the tenure of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and should therefore be treated as a long-standing urban planning and environmental challenge rather than blamed solely on the current administration.
Kente, however, called for an urgent review of the 1979 Abuja Master Plan, arguing that it no longer reflects the population and infrastructure needs of a capital city with more than 3.5 million residents.
The forum asked the FCTA to desilt drainage channels, enforce regulations against encroachment and ensure development projects comply with due process. It also urged the administration to prevent infrastructure projects from worsening existing environmental problems.
The calls come amid increased flood preparedness nationwide. The National Emergency Management Agency has activated its National Emergency Operations Centre, while the Nigeria Meteorological Agency identified the FCT as a high-risk area for flash floods. The Federal Ministry of Environment also operates a flood early-warning system covering Abuja.
Despite its concerns, the forum expressed confidence in Wike’s infrastructure drive, citing ongoing road construction and urban renewal projects. Deputy House of Representatives spokesman Philip Agbese also defended the minister, saying residents should share responsibility for activities that contribute to flooding.
