FCT Flooding: Stakeholders Push for Immediate Action, Master Plan Review

A coalition representing landlords, business owners, and investors in the Federal Capital Territory, known as the FCT Stakeholders Forum for Development, has urged the Federal Capital Territory Administration to implement urgent solutions for Abuja’s recurring flood crisis. During a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, the forum outlined key demands including the desilting of drainage channels, stringent enforcement against building encroachments, and a thorough re-evaluation of the territory’s 1979 Master Plan. The group voiced significant concern over recent inundations that have impacted numerous areas across the nation's capital.

Chief David Kente, the forum’s Chairman, addressed the media, stating that the recent floods had submerged residences, rendered roads impassable, and disrupted livelihoods, emphasizing the critical need for immediate intervention. Kente remarked, “Flooding is no longer an isolated incident. Communities that never experienced such levels of inundation are now vulnerable. Homes have been submerged, roads cut off, and livelihoods disrupted.”

An independent fact-finding assessment conducted by the FSTF in affected zones revealed that the flooding stemmed from a confluence of factors, including rapid urban expansion, obstructed drainage systems, and improper waste disposal. Kente also highlighted that the removal of drainage covers by scavengers had significantly contributed to the blockage of water pathways.

While some critics have attributed the flooding to alleged violations of the Abuja Master Plan, the FSTF clarified that the issue predates the current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike's tenure. The forum noted that Abuja has experienced similar flooding under previous administrations, indicating that the problem is a long-standing challenge in urban planning and environmental management, rather than one solely tied to the present government.

Nonetheless, the group contended that the 1979 Abuja Master Plan requires urgent reconsideration, arguing that the document no longer adequately accounts for the population growth and infrastructural demands of a capital city now exceeding 3.5 million residents. Kente reiterated, “The 1979 Master Plan is outdated. The document that guides development in the FCT no longer reflects the demographic and infrastructural realities of a capital city of over 3.5 million people. It requires urgent review and modernisation.”

This appeal comes amidst a heightened national focus on flood preparedness. Earlier in August, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) activated its National Emergency Operations Centre to bolster monitoring, data collection, and coordination of flood responses for the 2026 rainy season. Similarly, the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) had, in its early August forecast, identified the FCT among states at high risk of flash floods, citing factors such as rainfall intensity, soil moisture, terrain, and drainage capacity. The Federal Ministry of Environment also operates a flood early-warning system covering Abuja and other vulnerable locations.

Despite the challenges, Kente conveyed the FSTF's vote of confidence in Wike's administration, commending ongoing road construction, urban renewal, and other infrastructure projects across the territory. He lauded Wike as “Mr Project,” suggesting that the administration’s infrastructure drive could significantly contribute to Abuja’s economic development if paired with effective environmental planning.

However, the forum cautioned the minister to ensure that infrastructure development does not exacerbate existing environmental challenges. Kente reiterated their plea: “We appeal to the Honourable Minister to take immediate and decisive action to address flooding in the FCT. This must include desilting of drainages, enforcement against encroachment, and a comprehensive review of the 1979 Master Plan.” They further urged the administration to ensure that all development projects follow due process to minimize hardship on residents.

This call from stakeholders occurs against the backdrop of ongoing drainage and road improvement projects in various parts of Abuja. In February, the FCT Administration inspected drainage, sewer, and access-road works around the World Trade Centre and the Abuja Metro Rail corridor—areas that have historically faced flooding and traffic issues during heavy rainfall.

Kente expressed the forum’s belief that Abuja can achieve flood resilience through robust planning, strong political will, and collaborative efforts between the government and its populace. He affirmed, “We believe that with political will, stakeholder collaboration, and proper planning, Abuja can become both a model capital and a flood-resilient city.”

Meanwhile, Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesman for the House of Representatives, defended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike against criticism concerning the recent flooding. Agbese argued that it was unfair to solely blame Wike, asserting that residents also share responsibility for activities that contribute to the problem. He highlighted that the FCT Administration has embarked on numerous infrastructure projects aimed at improving roads, drainage, transportation, and other vital facilities.