Journal Article

The Impact of Flood on Socio-Economic Livelihood of Akare Community, Wushishi Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assesses impact of flood on the socio-economic livelihood of Akare Community, Wushishi local government area of Niger state, Nigeria. A hundred questionnaires were administered and the data obtained were analyzed using simple percentages and charts. The results from the analysis revealed that about 84% of the respondents in Akare community said that flood occurred mostly at the event of rainfall intensity and amount. The heavy rainfall caused an overflow of river Mariga where there is a confluence near the village which over flown the inner based (river Akare and submerged the entire community). Other factors that substantially influenced flooding in the study area were identified. These had caused enormous damages to lives, properties, public utilities, farmlands and houses. From the analysis about 62% of the respondents said that less than 5 people had lost their lives and the percentage of farm land impacted by flood was over 75%. Flood mitigation measures such as use of sand bags bridges, river channelization, enlightment and necessary legislation and enforcement are recommended to checkmate activities aiding flooding.

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