Assessment of Public Participation in Flood Disaster Management. A case of Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract

In West Africa, the impacts of flooding are becoming more severe with climate warming. Flood prone communities in Kogi State, North central Nigeria are affected by annual flooding and some extreme flood events. This study explores the level of public participation in flood disaster management in Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria. Floods have become a recurrent issue in Lokoja, causing significant damage to property and posing risks to human lives. Despite efforts by government agencies, effective disaster management requires active involvement from the public. This study focuses on accessing the level of public participation in flood disaster management. Mixed method approach of conducting research was employed. Surveys and interviews were conducted to assess the current levels of public participation and identify barriers and facilitators to engagement. Findings reveal a moderate level of public involvement, with challenges including limited awareness, inadequate infrastructure, and ineffective communication channels. However, there is also evidence of community resilience and willingness to contribute to disaster management efforts. This study proposes recommendations for improving public participation, including enhancing communication strategies, increasing community involvement in planning processes, and strengthening partnerships between government agencies and local stakeholders, encouraging participatory action research (PAR) and integrating feedback mechanism to enhance public participation in flood disaster management. Empowering communities as active agents of change, by fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment, this research aims to contributes to making more inclusive and effective flood disaster management in Lokoja and similar regions, contribute to policy making and enhances good and inclusive governance which fosters sustainable and conducive healthy living environment.