Climate Change, Flood Risk and Adaptation in Nigeria

Abstract

This journal entry examines the relationship between climate change and flood risks in Nigeria, as well as the adaptation strategies used by households and government agencies. Using a mixed- methods approach, including rainfall data analysis, household surveys (n=320), and interviews with disaster officials, the study finds that extreme rainfall events have increased by 35% in coastal Nigeria since 1990. Floods now occur four times more frequently than they did forty years ago. However, adaptation efforts remain weak. Only 17% of at-risk households have access to early warning systems. Government spending favours emergency response (81% of flood-related budget) over prevention (19%). The study concludes that Nigeria requires a national flood plain management law, community-based warning systems, and a funded relocation program for high- risk areas. Without these measures, flood losses will continue to rise as the climate changes.

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