Research Summary

Research Summary

The Niger Delta region of Nigeria experienced a devastating flood disaster in October 2022, resulting in a wide range of losses, including crop yield, crop failure, displacement of people, and destruction of property. The impact on the farmers in the region was profound, not only economically but also psychologically. The aftermath of the flood demanded a comprehensive effort to rebuild livelihood, restore agriculture, and enhance community resilience. The study was conducted farmers from villages from three local governments (Abua Odual, Ahoada West and Yenegoa). Townhall meetings were held with small farmers from these local government areas. The purpose of the townhall meetings was to provide a safe space for flood victims to share their experiences, as well as  to gather qualitative data through interactive settings that are indigenous to the participants.  

RESEARCH FINDINGS

1. Crop Yield Loss and Poor Harvest

The flood led to significant losses in crop yield due to waterlogged fields and damaged crops, affecting the livelihoods and income of farmers. Barns, farm equipment, and storage facilities either damaged or swept away by the floodwaters, further exacerbating the economic impact on the farming community. Post-flooding implication will be that farmers will experience poor harvest and reduction in the availability of staple crops. This will impact food security in the region. 

2.  Human Displacement and Property Destruction

The flood disaster resulted in the displacement of thousands of individuals, forcing them to seek temporary shelters and disrupting their daily lives. Houses, infrastructure, and property were extensively damaged, leaving many without adequate accommodation. Schools, health centers and market places were also destroyed. This added to the strain on their already compromised economic situation.

3. Psychological Impacts on Farmers

The psychological impact of the 2022 flood disaster on farmers in the Niger Delta region was overwhelming. However, very little attention is paid to trauma, anxiety, depression, and stress experienced by famers due to the loss of their crops, homes, and livelihoods. The uncertainty about the future and the overwhelming task of rebuilding their lives weighed heavily on their mental well-being. 

4. Role of cooperatives 

To mitigate the phycological impact of the flood disasters many farmers leaned on cooperatives and indigenous support networks, pooling their resources, knowledge, and skills as a instruments for community resilience. Cooperatives provide emotional support, shared experiences, and a sense of unity, lessening the psychological burden on individual farmers. Many famers also found solace within faith based settings (protestant Christian denomination). Rotating Savings and Credit Association (ROSCA) served as instruments for financial aid. ROSCA provided farmers with access small-scale assistance on a rotating basis, aiding in the rebuilding of their farms and lives. ROSCA fosters a sense of community, encouraging trust and mutual support among farmers, strengthening their resilience in the face of adversity.

Conclusion 

Overall, a multi-dimensional approach involving government intervention, community engagement, and humanitarian assistance is essential to rebuilding lives, restoring agriculture, and enhancing resilience in the Niger Delta Region after the devastating flood disaster.  Public investment and private sector development initiatives are need for infrastructure rehabilitation to restore the damaged areas to facilitate socioeconomic recovery. Smallholders also need grants and risk free financial aid to revive their businesses and livelihoods. 

We are very grateful to the Gibson Iyabi Trust for their generous contributions towards this project.