ARCHIVES
VOL. 12, ISSUE 12 (2025)
Examination of key factors exposing buildings to flood in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors
Muoneke Eberechukwu Miriam, Iheama Ndidi Blessing, Uche Innocent Chidebelu
Abstract
Flooding has emerged as a significant
environmental hazard in Nigeria, with Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, experiencing
recurrent inundation between 2020 and 2025, leading to extensive property and
infrastructure damage. This study examined the key factors exposing buildings
to flooding in Abakaliki, aiming to inform strategies for enhancing building
resilience. A descriptive survey design was adopted, targeting the entire
population of 390 respondents, including flood-affected households, registered
architects, builders, civil engineers, and ongoing approved building projects.
A total of 384 valid responses were collected, representing a 98.46% response
rate. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings
revealed that rapid urbanization and unregulated physical development (mean =
4.41, SD = 0.71), increased impervious surfaces (mean = 4.38, SD = 0.76), and
poor or non-existent drainage systems (mean = 4.36, SD = 0.78) were the most
critical factors contributing to flood exposure. The composite mean for all
factors was 4.15 (SD = 0.83, SE = 0.04), significantly above the neutral value
of 3.0 (t = 27.12, p = 0.000), confirming that these factors substantially
increase building vulnerability. The study concludes that human-induced pressures,
inadequate infrastructure, and poor maintenance practices primarily drive flood
risks. It is recommended that urban planning enforcement be strengthened,
drainage systems upgraded, and flood-resilient building strategies implemented
to mitigate future flood impacts.
Download
Pages:221-225
How to cite this article:
Muoneke Eberechukwu Miriam, Iheama Ndidi Blessing, Uche Innocent Chidebelu "Examination of key factors exposing buildings to flood in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria". International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, Vol 12, Issue 12, 2025, Pages 221-225
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.