Abuja landlords and business owners urge action on flooding
The Federal Capital Territory Stakeholders Forum for Development has called on authorities to urgently address the worsening flooding situation in Abuja. The group, led by Chief David Kente, highlighted the impact of recent floods on homes, roads, and livelihoods, and stressed the need for immediate intervention. They emphasized that flooding is a long-standing issue in Abuja, not limited to the current administration of Nyesom Wike. The forum also called for a comprehensive review of the outdated 1979 Abuja Master Plan to better reflect the city’s current needs.
What we know
- The stakeholders’ forum urged the Federal Capital Territory Administration to desilt drainage channels, enforce anti-encroachment laws, and review the 1979 Master Plan.
- Chief David Kente stated that rapid urban expansion, blocked drainage, and waste disposal are major contributors to the flooding.
- The forum defended Nyesom Wike against criticism, noting that flooding predates his administration and ongoing infrastructure projects are underway.
- The National Emergency Management Agency and the Nigeria Meteorological Agency have both identified Abuja as high-risk for flash floods and activated monitoring systems.
- The group called for infrastructure development to be paired with effective environmental planning to prevent worsening the flood situation.
