Flooding crisis in Nigeria
Common natural hazards and climate change impact:Nigeria commonly experiences flooding, droughts, heatwaves, desertification, coastal erosion, and storms. Climate change has increased the frequency, intensity, and unpredictability of floods and droughts, especially during the rainy season.
Areas facing the greatest impacts:Northern Nigeria: Drought, desertification, and heatwavesSouthern Nigeria (Niger Delta & coastal states like Lagos, Bayelsa): Flooding, coastal erosion, sea-level riseRiverine areas: Severe seasonal flooding
Most affected communities (How and Why):Rural farming communities: Crop failure due to droughts and floodsFishing communities: Loss of homes and livelihoods from flooding and coastal erosionUrban poor: Poor drainage, informal settlements, and weak infrastructure increase vulnerabilityThese groups are most affected due to poverty, dependence on natural resources, and limited access to early warning systems.
Local coping and adaptation methods:Building local drainage channels and embankmentsSeasonal migration to safer areasCrop diversification and early plantingCommunity-based flood warnings and mutual support systems
Institutional and external support:Government: NEMA, State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMA), relief materials, temporary sheltersNGOs & International agencies: UNICEF, Red Cross, WHO, UNDP (food aid, health services, climate awareness)Community-based organizations: Local education, relief distribution, and recovery support