Background of the Study
Flooding has become one of the most frequent and devastating environmental hazards in Nigeria, particularly in areas like Lokoja Local Government, Kogi State. The town is located at the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers, which makes it highly susceptible to flooding during the rainy season (Nwachukwu & Ibrahim, 2023). Over the years, various flood management policies have been implemented by the federal and state governments to reduce the impacts of flooding on communities, infrastructure, and the economy. These policies include flood prevention measures such as the construction of dams, flood diversion channels, and the development of early warning systems. Despite these efforts, Lokoja continues to experience recurrent floods, resulting in loss of lives, displacement, and destruction of property. This study will assess the effectiveness of flood management policies in minimizing the environmental hazards caused by flooding in Lokoja.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Although several flood management policies have been put in place in Lokoja, the local community continues to face significant environmental hazards during the flood season. Flooding causes severe economic and social disruption, with residents experiencing loss of livelihoods and homes (Adebayo & Tunde, 2024). The existing flood management policies appear insufficient in addressing the persistent flooding challenges in the region, and their implementation and impact remain unclear. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these policies in mitigating flood-related environmental hazards in Lokoja Local Government.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the effectiveness of flood management policies in reducing the environmental hazards associated with flooding in Lokoja.
To assess the challenges faced by local authorities in implementing flood management strategies in Lokoja.
To recommend improvements for flood management policies in Lokoja to enhance their effectiveness.
1.4 Research Questions
How effective have flood management policies been in reducing environmental hazards in Lokoja?
What challenges do local authorities face in the implementation of flood management policies in Lokoja?
What strategies can improve the effectiveness of flood management policies in Lokoja?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
Flood management policies have significantly reduced the environmental hazards caused by flooding in Lokoja.
Poor implementation and inadequate funding have hindered the effectiveness of flood management policies in Lokoja.
Strengthening flood management infrastructure and improving community awareness will reduce the environmental hazards caused by flooding in Lokoja.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will provide insights into the effectiveness of flood management policies in Lokoja, contributing to the broader understanding of flood mitigation strategies in Nigeria. The findings will be valuable for policymakers, urban planners, and environmental agencies seeking to improve flood management and minimize the impacts of flooding on local communities.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the assessment of flood management policies in Lokoja Local Government, Kogi State. It will examine the effectiveness of flood prevention and mitigation strategies implemented by the government. Limitations include challenges in obtaining data on flood-related losses and possible variations in the accuracy of community-level reporting.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Flood Management Policies: Government strategies and actions aimed at reducing the impact of floods, including prevention, mitigation, and recovery efforts.
Environmental Hazards: Natural or man-made phenomena that pose a threat to public safety, health, and infrastructure.
Flood Prevention Measures: Actions taken to reduce the likelihood of flooding, such as the construction of dams, flood channels, and flood barriers.
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