A heavy downpour on Thursday left parts of Abuja, particularly Guzape, Jabi, and Asokoro, waterlogged, raising fears of flooding as the rainy season peaks in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The rain lasted several hours and quickly overwhelmed narrow drainage channels, turning major roads into streams. In Jabi, commuters abandoned vehicles after floodwaters reached knee level. In Guzape, residents placed sandbags to prevent water from entering homes. Side streets became almost impassable, and pedestrians waded through ankle-deep water.
The 2025 Annual Flood Outlook released by the Federal Government flagged the FCT as a high-risk zone for flooding between April and November.
Areas listed as particularly vulnerable include Asokoro, Guzape, Gwarinpa, Nyanya, Bwari, Kubwa, Wuse, and the Central Business District.
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Abuja’s flood risks stem from its terrain and rapid urban development. Streams and valleys naturally channel water, but many waterways are now blocked by construction. Poorly maintained drains clog with waste, forcing water onto streets and into residential areas.
A video circulating on social media showed a commuter warning drivers to avoid certain areas and navigate carefully through rising waters. His frantic tone captured the fear and confusion residents faced.
A driver traveling from Kubwa to Jabi described the hazards. “Anytime it rains, the streets get flooded, and drivers must be very careful. We cannot continue like this. If one downpour can cause this, imagine what October rains will bring,” he said.
Another commuter, also traveling from Kubwa to Jabi, said their driver had to stop midway. The heavy downpour made the road unsafe, forcing them to wait until the rain eased before continuing.
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The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) forecasts heavier rains in the coming weeks. Flood risks in the FCT are expected to remain high through November.
Residents face worsening flash floods unless authorities clear blocked drains, desilt waterways, and enforce construction rules. Thursday’s storm shows how quickly the capital’s streets can become submerged during heavy rains.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
