Social Vulnerability and Flood Resilience in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

The escalating flood threats and resultant damage to lives, properties, and livelihoods in Lagos State have prompted the need for effective flood risk policies and management strategies in the region. To develop these strategies, understanding the resilience of local households and communities, as well as their vulnerability to such disasters is crucial. Global research in this regard indicates that while the characteristics of the hazard determine the degree of disaster loss, the social and economic status of households at the time of the hazard occurrence determines their resilience and vulnerability to the hazard. However, there has been a lack of studies identifying which social groups are most at risk of flooding, the levels of vulnerability and resilience among households, and the impact of environmental policies on them. This research aimed to address these gaps by measuring vulnerability and resilience to flood in Lagos State. A mixed-method approach consisting of household surveys and key informant interviews was adopted for the research. The acquired datasets were primarily sourced and analysed using statistics and thematic analysis, respectively. Key findings reveal disparities in resilience levels between indigenes and in-migrants, as well as other social groups, underscoring the influence of socioeconomic factors on vulnerability. Additionally, lapses in risk communication by relevant institutions, noncompliance with local environmental policies, and inadequate enforcement mechanisms were identified as key contributors to increased household vulnerability. These findings emphasize the need for tailored policy interventions that address the specific needs and challenges faced by different social groups in Lagos State. By incorporating insights from this research into policy and management strategies, stakeholders can strengthen community resilience and reduce vulnerability to future flood events. This research connects wider debates on disaster risk reduction and resilience building in urban settings, drawing from earth, environmental, and geoscience perspectives.

Date of Award	27 Sept 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Portsmouth
Supervisor	Malcolm Whitworth (Supervisor) & Brian Baily (Supervisor)