The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD), an environmental advocacy organisation, has expressed deep concern over the recent catastrophic flooding that devastated several communities in Jos, Plateau State, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of families.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, Executive Director of FENRAD, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and all those who have suffered losses. He affirmed the organisation’s solidarity with affected communities and called for immediate humanitarian support and long-term sustainable solutions.
“While flooding in parts of Nigeria has become a seasonal threat, what remains unacceptable is the persistent lack of preparedness and failure to act on early warning signals by relevant government agencies at both federal and state levels,” Nwafor said.
He added that the flooding in Jos is not merely a natural disaster but also a consequence of systemic negligence and poor environmental governance. Despite repeated alerts from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) forecasting high flood risks in 2025, Nwafor noted that little was done to preempt or mitigate the impacts in vulnerable areas like Plateau State.
“The absence of coordinated early warning dissemination, poor urban planning, blocked drainage systems, and unregulated developments along flood plains are clear indicators of institutional failure,” he said.
Comrade Nwafor strongly faulted the Plateau State Government and relevant federal agencies for their inertia and poor disaster risk management framework. He said the lack of political will to implement climate adaptation strategies and enforce environmental regulations has left many communities defenceless in the face of extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change.
FENRAD urged the Plateau State Government to: Establish a functional Early Warning and Rapid Response System in collaboration with national agencies and community stakeholders, Review and enforce urban and environmental regulations, especially in flood-prone zones, Engage in sustainable drainage and infrastructure development to reduce flood risks and Invest in climate adaptation and resilience measures, including public awareness, ecological restoration, and community-based disaster preparedness.
The organisation also called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other stakeholders to expedite relief efforts, ensure equitable distribution of aid, and begin long-term recovery planning that includes rebuilding with resilience.
“FENRAD remains committed to advocating for environmental justice, sustainable development, and accountable governance. We will continue to monitor the situation and push for policy reforms that protect both people and the planet,” Nwafor concluded.
