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DOI: Assessing the Impact of Climate Change Induced Flooding on Human Security in Nigeria’s Middle Belt
Augustine I. Wonor , City University, Cambodia Gloria Chigbu , Anchor University Lagos, Nigeria Maryjane Y. Oghogho , City University, Cambodia O.M.C Osazuwa , City University, CambodiaAbstract
Climate change has exacerbated flooding in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, resulting in a complex human security crisis that extends beyond environmental degradation. The issue is rooted in the ongoing failure of governance systems and local institutions to address the socio-economic and health impacts of recurring floods, which consistently undermine livelihoods and human well-being. This study analyses the impact of flooding on various dimensions of security, including economic, food, health, environmental, personal, community, and political aspects within the region. Utilising the UNDP (1994) Human Security framework, this study employs a qualitative design that involves document analysis of thirty-six institutional reports, policy papers, and peer- reviewed studies from 2020 to 2025. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify recurring patterns and interconnections among the impacts of flooding. The findings indicate that flooding adversely affects livelihoods, disrupts food systems, facilitates the spread of disease, degrades ecosystems, displaces populations, fractures communities, and highlights significant governance deficiencies. Vulnerability is characterised by intersectionality, with women, children, and the elderly facing increased risks, while responses are often fragmented and reactive. The research indicates that flooding caused by climate change negatively impacts human development and socio-political stability in the Middle Belt. The recommendations include, first, enhancing community-based adaptation and early warning systems; second, investing in resilient infrastructure and social protection; and third, incorporating human security principles into national and local climate policies.
Keywords
Climate Change, Flooding, Human Security
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Copyright (c) 2026 Augustine I. Wonor, Gloria Chigbu, Maryjane Y. Oghogho, O.M.C Osazuwa
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