The impact of flooding on poor communities in Lagos State, Nigeria: The case of the Makoko urban settlement

Abstract

The impacts of flooding on socioeconomic outcomes have become a global concern for governments, policymakers, and international organizations alike. The situation is particularly challenging in developing nations where poor communities are more vulnerable to the impacts of flooding. Consequently, this study investigated the impact of flooding on poor communities and poverty levels in Africa with particular reference to the Makoko community in Lagos State, South-West Region of Nigeria. A survey design was employed with the collection of data through an environmental structured audio interview questionnaire (ESAIQ). Three Hundred and Fifty-Eight participants located in the core six district areas of the community took part in the research. The impacts of flooding were found to be negative and a significant impediment to community development. Flooding was found to aggravate poverty levels and negatively impact educational status and community development. This study recommends more community-based approaches to help raise awareness and support the co-development of interventions that can help improve resilience.

Vulnerable spaces, unequal responses: lessons for transformative climate resilience in Lagos

“…In addition, several participants highlighted how lack of capital forces people to live in certain physically vulnerable environments, lacking access to amenities. Lack of infrastructural development especially in informal communities increase flood vulnerabilities (Amoako, 2016;Lawanson et al, 2023). Many interviewees highlighted Ikorodu, a neighborhood in Lagos as physically vulnerable and cheap.…”

“…A second point when considering income as a factor that engenders flood vulnerability is access to resources (Lawanson et al, 2023). For example, interviewee Ini's ownership of two houses-one on the island and another on the mainland, enables him to cope by moving temporarily during flooding events.…”

Review of the Relationship Management Strategies for Building Flood Disaster Resilience through Public–Private Partnership

“…Sustainable development is fulfilling present needs without compromising the capability of future generations [1], but unfortunately, flooding negatively impacts sustainable development. Flooding leads to water pollution, unsanitary conditions, diseases, loss of life, loss of economic livelihood, and a chain of poverty [2]. It has implications for the sustainable development goals developed by the United Nations.…”