The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD), an environmental advocacy organisation, has expressed concern over the recent catastrophic flooding that devastated several communities in Jos, Plateau State, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of families.
In a statement endorsed by its Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, FENRAD extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to all who have suffered losses as a result of the disaster.
“We stand in solidarity with affected communities and call for immediate humanitarian support and long-term sustainable solutions,” he submitted.
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 stated, adding that the flooding in Jos is not merely a natural disaster but also a consequence of systemic negligence and poor environmental governance.
He noted: “It is alarming that despite repeated alerts from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) forecasting high flood risks in 2025, 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.
“FENRAD strongly faults the Plateau State Government and relevant federal agencies for their inertia and poor disaster risk management framework. The lack of political will to implement climate adaptation strategies and enforce environmental regulations has left many communities defenseless in the face of extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change.”
The group called on the Plateau State Government to:
1. Establish a functional Early Warning and Rapid Response System in collaboration with national agencies and community stakeholders.
2. Review and enforce urban and environmental regulations, especially in flood-prone zones.
3. Engage in sustainable drainage and infrastructure development to reduce flood risks.
4. Invest in climate adaptation and resilience measures, including public awareness, ecological restoration, and community-based disaster preparedness.
“We also urge 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,” stressed the group.