Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
Landlords, business owners and investors in the Federal Capital Territory have called for urgent action to address recurring flooding in Abuja, including the clearing of drainage channels, enforcement against encroachment and a review of the territory’s 1979 Master Plan.
The FCT Stakeholders Forum for Development made the demand on Wednesday at a press conference in Abuja, following recent flooding that submerged homes, disrupted businesses and cut off roads in several parts of the capital.
The forum’s Chairman, Chief David Kente, said its assessment of affected communities identified rapid urban expansion, blocked drainage systems and indiscriminate waste disposal among the factors worsening the flooding.
“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,” Kente said.
He also identified the removal of drainage covers by scavengers as another factor contributing to blocked waterways.
While acknowledging criticism over alleged violations of the Abuja Master Plan, the group said flooding had occurred under successive administrations and should therefore be treated as a long-term urban planning and environmental challenge.
The forum said the 1979 Master Plan had become inadequate for Abuja’s current population and infrastructure demands.
“The 1979 Master Plan is outdated.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,” Kente said.
The call comes amid broader flood preparedness efforts, with the National Emergency Management Agency activating its National Emergency Operations Centre earlier this month to improve monitoring and coordination during the 2026 rainy season.
The forum nevertheless expressed support for the FCT Administration, citing ongoing road construction, urban renewal and other infrastructure projects. Kente described Wike as “Mr Project” while urging the administration to ensure that development does not aggravate existing environmental problems.
“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,” he said.
The stakeholders also called for strict compliance with development regulations and proper planning around infrastructure projects to minimise disruption and reduce flood risks.
Kente said stronger planning, collaboration between residents and government, and sustained enforcement could help transform Abuja into a flood-resilient capital.
“We believe that with political will, stakeholder collaboration, and proper planning, Abuja can become both a model capital and a flood-resilient city,” he said.
