The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has begun city-wide desilting of drainage channels following heavy rainfall and flash floods in parts of Abuja. The exercise, directed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, is aimed at reducing flood risks during the peak of the rainy season.
Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Richard Dauda, on Thursday September 3, said the recent Tuesdays flooding was worsened by blocked drainage channels, illegal developments and infrastructure vandalism. He explained that refuse dumped into drains, including polythene bags and other debris, can obstruct water outlets and reduce the capacity of drainage systems.
Dauda also identified an illegally constructed retaining wall along the Airport Expressway as a major obstruction to water flow, saying it had narrowed a waterway and contributed to backflow and flooding. He said the affected structures would have to be removed to restore adequate drainage capacity.
The FCDA is currently desilting trapezoidal drains, U-channels and culvert outlets, while damaged sections will be reconstructed where necessary. Dauda also warned against the theft of metal gully covers and said the agency was exploring non-recyclable replacement materials. He urged residents to stop dumping waste in waterways and support efforts to protect Abuja’s flood-control infrastructure.
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