Assessment of Perception and Methods of Combating Flooding in Minna City of Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

Minna City has been experiencing a series of flash floods due to freak rainfall with adverse effects on the psychological and physiological well-being of the residents of Minna City. It is evident that most of the respondents knew of the flood occurrence in their community. This study aimed at Assessing people’s perceptions and Methods of Combating Flooding in the study area. To achieve the aim, these objectives were explored; to assess the perception of respondents on the impact of flooding occurrence and to determine the methods of combating flooding in Minna City. The research design method and Purposive random sampling technique were used. The researcher designed a structured questionnaire. Focus group discussions and interviews were used to collect factual information from 2012 to 2021 for data analysis. The result of the study revealed that respondents have lived in the area for a period which is sufficient to enable them to supply relevant information regarding flooding in the selected areas within Minna City. The methods of combating flooding in Minna with current practices and structures have unwittingly increased the flood occurrence. It was concluded that flooding occurrence is a notable issue in Minna City. It is, therefore, recommended that the proactive disaster management and mitigation approach should be enhanced and strictly adhered to.