Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has inspected areas affected by the recent flooding in Abuja. The administration is moving to identify the causes of the problem and prevent a recurrence. This Abuja flood inspection is a proactive step towards finding solutions.
According to The Punch, Wike visited flood-affected locations in Maitama on Tuesday morning. During the Abuja flood inspection, officials discovered that a structure had been erected on land designated as a drainage channel. This happened despite the plot being revoked more than a decade ago.
Structure found on drainage land
During the inspection, Wike and other FCT officials toured the affected location. A notice indicated that the land had been set aside as a drainage area.
Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, said the plot had been allocated in the past. However, it was revoked in 2011.
“FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, visited some of the flooded areas in Maitama, Abuja, this morning,” Olayinka wrote on X.
“The spot here is a Drainage Area. It was allocated, but REVOKED in 2011. Structure was built on it,” he added.
A sign displayed at the location also identified the property as Plot 4508 A06. The sign stated that it was revoked on December 22, 2011, due to overriding public interest.
Weekend rain triggers flooding
Wike’s inspection followed heavy rainfall at the weekend that flooded several parts of Abuja. The Abuja flood inspection left vehicles submerged and disrupted movement in some communities.
The incident generated criticism from residents and other stakeholders. Concerns were raised over blocked waterways, construction on green areas and the capacity of the capital’s drainage infrastructure.
The FCT Administration has maintained that flooding in Abuja predates Wike’s tenure. However, it acknowledged the need for measures to address recurring incidents.
FCTA moves to tackle flooding
Olayinka had earlier said rapid urban expansion, inadequate drainage infrastructure, waste management and weak enforcement of planning regulations were among factors contributing to the problem.
He also blamed the activities of scavengers who remove drainage covers. He said the practice exposes drainage channels to refuse and increases the risk of blockage.
The administration has said it is reviewing the 1979 Abuja Master Plan. The review aims to reflect the current realities of the rapidly expanding capital. Therefore, Abuja flood inspection efforts have become even more crucial.
Wike’s latest inspection is expected to help officials identify vulnerable locations. It should also help determine measures needed to improve drainage and reduce flooding across affected parts of the FCT. Notably, Abuja flood inspection is a key part of the strategy to address future risks.
