Assessment of Flood Vulnerability among Smallholder Farmers in Niger State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Flooding significantly impacts livelihoods, poverty, and human populations. This study assessed flood vulnerability among smallholder farmers in Niger State, Nigeria. Specifically quantifying flood vulnerability at the farmer level and identifying vulnerability levels across three zones. The study employed Principal Component Analysis, Multiple Correspondence Analysis, and the Farmers’ Vulnerability Index, with post-estimation tests confirming result reliability. Findings revealed varying vulnerability levels across zones. Zone A exhibited the highest vulnerability with a Farmers' Vulnerability Index (FaVI) of 0.914, followed by Zone C (FaVI: 0.646), while Zone B showed notably lower vulnerability (FaVI: 0.174). These results highlight the heterogeneous nature of flood risks and adaptive capacities within the state. High vulnerability in Zones A and C primarily stemmed from elevated exposure and sensitivity to flooding, coupled with lower adaptive capacities. On the contrary, Zone B's lower vulnerability resulted from higher adaptive capacity, despite moderate exposure levels. The study recommends prioritizing flood mitigation strategies such as improving drainage systems, constructing flood barriers, and enhancing adaptive capacities, such as subsidized fertilizers and relief from NGOs, particularly in Zones A and C, while maintaining and strengthening effective practices in Zone B. These findings provide a foundation for policymakers and stakeholders to develop localized approaches to flood management and agricultural resilience in Niger State.