Authorities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have commenced urgent preparations to tackle potential flooding as the rainy season intensifies.
Following predictions by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) indicating a high risk of flooding in parts of Abuja, the FCT Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has activated its disaster response teams across vulnerable areas.
Director-General of FEMA, Dr. Abbas Idriss, said the agency is working with local councils, environmental officers, and community leaders to clear blocked drains, remove illegal structures on waterways, and sensitize residents in flood-prone zones.
He warned residents living in low-lying areas such as Lokogoma, Galadimawa, Gwagwalada, and Kubwa to remain alert and heed evacuation warnings if issued.
“We are not taking chances. Public safety is our top priority,” Idriss said. “We urge residents to report signs of rising water levels and avoid crossing flooded roads.”
Already, relief items and emergency shelters have been stockpiled, and a 24-hour response center has been activated to monitor developments.
The FCT Administration has also appealed to developers to adhere strictly to building regulations and avoid encroaching on natural waterways.
