Assessment of the Menace of Perennial Flood Disasters in Ilorin Metropolis, Nigeria: Towards Effective Management and Control

Abstract

Perennial flood disasters have been the haul mark of the natural disasters ravaging Ilorin metropolis in Nigeria along with concomitant human-related causes. This have resulted into significant loss of life and property. The aim of this study is to do a comprehensive assessment of the menace of flooding in the area with a view to providing necessary insights towards efficient and effective management and control. The study explores both qualitative and quantitative methods. The results show that the correlation coefficient (r) is 0.81 and the coefficient of multiple determinant (r²) is 0.58. This means that about 58% of the variation in independent variables may be attributed to a substantial increase in the dependent variables, which are factors causing perennial floods. In addition, the F - statistics which is 12.45, was statistically significant at p-value = 0.00. These factors are rainfall, blocked waterways, and poor drainage systems, climate change, infrastructural inadequacy and dearth of funds. The study concluded by underscoring the need for effective management and control of floods in Ilorin metropolis. Against this backdrop, it was recommended that there should be effective management policies and regulations, creation of special funding window to enhance efficient and effective implementation of flood Programmes, stakeholder’s engagement and collaboration to engender enhanced public awareness including the provision of improved infrastructure and adequate drainage systems. This is expected to be a step to mitigating the menace of perennial flood disasters in the study area.