Adaptation Strategies and Benefits of Flooding in the Rural Communities of Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the adaptation strategies and benefits of flooding in some rural communities of Rivers state, Nigeria. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were utilized to collect the data analysed in this research. The survey made use of questionnaire to collect primary data from 314 respondents for the quantitative aspect. The tool was prepared by the investigator under the guidance of expert which consisted of two parts, the beneficial impact of flood on livelihood and adaptive measures adopted by the respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequency, percentages and multiple regression were used for data analysis. On the beneficial impacts, it was shown that 86%, 77% and 40% of respondents stated that flood have been beneficial on the social, economic and environment aspect of their economy, furthermore the multiple regression reveal that there was a significant beneficial impact of flooding on livelihood. On the adaptation measure, sensitization on the utilization of the benefits of flooding was recommended. On the issue of adaptation, the recommendation was that rural dwellers be assisted to overcome mal-adaptation. There should be efficient capacity building and massive investment in flood control infrastructure and equipment.