Sodiq Ojuroungbe
A United States-based environmental expert, Ademola Adegoroye, has called for immediate and effective interventions to address the devastating impacts of flooding in Nigeria.
Adegoroye,a doctoral researcher from the University of Fairfax, Virginia, USA, highlighted the socioeconomic implications of flooding, which has become a persistent challenge in the country, affecting various communities and livelihoods.
In a statement made available to PUNCH Healthwise on Tuesday, the business analytics and environmental expert lamented that the growing frequency and intensity of these floods expose a significant gap in the country’s disaster preparedness and response systems.
Adegoroye advocated for a comprehensive, well-coordinated response, including investments in flood infrastructure, regulation of activities that increase flood risks, community-based disaster preparedness, improved early warning systems, and collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and international bodies.
Speaking on his recent research titled “Socioeconomic impacts of flooding and its coping strategies in Nigeria: Evidence from Dagiri community, Gwagwalada area council of Abuja,” the environmental expert said his study underscores the devastating consequences of floods beyond just physical damage.
He added that his research reveals how flooding disrupts lives, destroys property, and has far-reaching economic and public health impacts.
While noting that the devastation caused by floods goes beyond immediate physical damage, the environment expert stressed that flooding is not just a natural disaster but a national crisis affecting millions of Nigerians every year.
He added, “In recent years, floods have affected virtually every region of Nigeria. In coastal areas, such as Lagos and Port Harcourt, heavy rains and rising sea levels have led to widespread inundation, paralysing economic activities and leaving thousands homeless. Inland, cities like Ibadan and communities along the banks of major rivers like the Niger and Benue have faced similar challenges, with flash floods sweeping away homes, bridges, and farmlands.
“The economic impact of these floods is staggering. Businesses are forced to close, crops are destroyed, and the cost of rebuilding runs into billions of naira. For a country that is already grappling with economic challenges, the repeated cycle of destruction and reconstruction is a burden that stifles growth and development.”
Adegoroye said his study also highlighted the impact on education, with schools frequently forced to close due to damage or inaccessible roads, leading to significant disruptions in students’ learning and prospects.
He stated, “With sanitation facilities overwhelmed and water sources contaminated, communities experience outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and malaria. In rural and peri-urban areas, where access to healthcare is limited, these health crises can lead to high mortality rates, particularly among children and the elderly.
“The long-term impact on educational outcomes is significant, potentially affecting the future workforce and economic stability of the country.
“Despite the recurring nature of these disasters, Nigeria’s response has often been reactive rather than proactive. Communities are left to fend for themselves, with limited government support and inadequate infrastructure to manage or mitigate the impacts of flooding. Makeshift measures like sandbags and temporary embankments are common, but they offer little protection against the sheer volume of water.
“Moreover, relief efforts, when they do arrive, are often slow and insufficient. The distribution of aid is hampered by bureaucratic delays, corruption, and a lack of coordination among agencies. This lack of an effective and timely response exacerbates the suffering of those affected and prolongs their recovery.”
He suggested that there is an urgent need to develop and maintain proper drainage systems, flood barriers, and other infrastructure that can help manage excess water.
The environmental expert also recommended that urban planning must incorporate flood risk assessments to prevent construction in high-risk areas.
According to him, illegal sand mining, deforestation, and unregulated urban development exacerbate flooding and should be strictly controlled.
He stressed that environmental laws must be enforced to protect natural waterways and maintain ecological balance.
Speaking on community-based disaster preparedness, Adegoroye explained that education campaigns should be launched to raise awareness about flood risks and the importance of preparedness.
He added that communities should be equipped with basic emergency response tools and training on how to evacuate safely.
He stressed, “Technology should be leveraged to provide accurate and timely weather forecasts. Effective communication channels must be established to ensure that warnings reach at-risk communities in time for them to take protective measures.
“As climate change continues to alter weather patterns, the threat of flooding will only grow. Nigeria must act now to protect its people, infrastructure, and future. It is time for a unified national strategy that prioritises flood management, invests in resilient infrastructure, and supports the most vulnerable communities. The time for action is now—before the next flood comes.”
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