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Research Article Volume 8 Issue 1
Living with the waters: perception, adaptation, and policy implications of flooding in Yenagoa metropolis, Nigeria
Tano Dumoyei Agusomu, Odafivwotu Ohwo, Morufu Olalekan Raimi
Received: July 10, 2025 | Published: July 23, 2025
Citation: Agusomu TD, Ohwo O, Raimi MO. Living with the waters: perception, adaptation, and policy implications of flooding in Yenagoa metropolis, Nigeria. Open Access J Sci. 2025;8(1):117-131. DOI: 10.15406/oajs.2025.08.00254
Abstract
Rationale: Yenagoa metropolis, known for its frequent and seasonal flooding, faces significant challenges due to these recurring flood events. Understanding residents’ awareness, perceptions, and adaptive responses to these hazards is crucial for effective flood management and mitigation. Objectives: The primary objectives of this study are to evaluate the level of awareness among Yenagoa residents regarding flood hazards, analyze their perceptions and adaptive responses, and assess the socio-economic and cultural factors influencing their decisions to reside in flood-prone areas. Methods: This study employed a mixed-method approach, utilizing structured questionnaires, field observations, and interviews to gather data from 600 respondents across 18 flood-prone conurbations in Yenagoa. Respondents were selected using stratified and systematic random sampling techniques, ensuring a comprehensive representation of the population. Results: The findings indicate a high general awareness of flood hazards among residents. However, variations in perception were observed, influenced by factors such as ethnicity, education, occupation, and resource use patterns. Despite the known risks, many residents choose to remain in Yenagoa due to perceived socio-economic benefits, cultural ties, and a favorable view of the metropolis and its surrounding suburbs. The study also found that residents employ various adaptive strategies to cope with flood risks, ranging from incidental adjustments to more purposeful actions. Conclusion: The simplistic understanding of flood hazards has fostered an optimistic and complacent attitude among many residents, which may undermine effective risk management and mitigation efforts. Recommendations: To address these challenges, it is recommended that targeted education and awareness campaigns be conducted to improve residents’ understanding of flood risks. Additionally, policy interventions should be implemented to encourage proactive flood risk management and adaptation strategies. Significance Statement: This study highlights the critical need for enhanced flood risk awareness and adaptive strategies in Yenagoa metropolis. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in designing more effective flood management and mitigation strategies.
Keywords: flood hazards, adjustment, response, perception, adaptation, socio-economic factors, cultural affiliations, risk management, flood mitigation, resident behavior, yenagoa metropolis
©2025 Agusomu, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.