EVALUATING FLOOD ADAPTATION MEASURES IN ONDO TOWN, NIGERIA: A CLIMATE CHANGE PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Ondo town has continued to experience flood events for the past years. The impacts of the flooding are far-reaching. Therefore, this study investigated the adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change-related events like flooding in Ondo town, Ondo State, Nigeria. The study identified flood-prone areas, examined existing adaptation measures and their effectiveness, and proposed tailored-specific strategies for enhancing flood resilience in the region. The study was conducted in 2025. The study relied on questionnaire and field observation to collect primary data. Nine hundred and fifty respondents were purposively selected for questionnaire administration, while copies of the questionnaire were administered to residents found within 500 metres radius of the flood-prone areas using random sampling technique to gather data on their experiences and perceptions. The study flagged some areas as flood-prone zones. The study showed that the most effective adaptive measure of flood event was provision of effective flood management and response by the Local Authorities as one of the existing adaptive measures in the study area. The study further showed that climate-resilient infrastructure, such as flood-resistant buildings, developing early warning systems, and community engagement are vital to effectively adapt to climate change consequences, particularly flooding. The study provided significant insights into flood adaptation strategies, offering evidence-based recommendations that can inform climate-resilient infrastructure and community-based adaptation approaches to enhance flood risk management in Nigeria and other developing countries vulnerable to climate change.  The study recommended that community resilience should be enhanced through initiatives that promote flood risk awareness and preparedness