CLIMATE-RESILIENT HOUSING STRATEGIES IN FLOOD-PRONE URBAN AREAS: A GIS-BASED ASSESSMENT OF SOUTH-SOUTH NIGERIA

Abstract

Flooding has become one of the most severe environmental and socio-economic challenges confronting urban settlements in Nigeria, especially in rapidly urbanizing coastal and low-lying cities. This study assesses climate-resilient housing strategies in flood-prone urban areas using a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based analysis of Benin City, Warri, and Port Harcourt. The objectives of the study were to identify flood-prone zones, examine the spatial distribution of housing within vulnerable areas, evaluate existing climate-resilient housing strategies, and recommend sustainable planning measures for reducing flood risks. The study adopted a mixed-method approach involving GIS spatial analysis, field observations, and secondary data collection. Data sources included satellite imagery, Digital Elevation Models (DEM), rainfall and hydrological records, land-use maps, and urban planning documents. GIS techniques such as overlay analysis, flood susceptibility mapping, buffer analysis, and vulnerability indexing were employed to classify areas into high, moderate, and low flood-risk zones. Findings reveal that significant portions of residential developments in Port Harcourt and Warri are located within high-risk flood zones due to coastal exposure, wetland encroachment, poor drainage systems, and uncontrolled urbanization. Benin City shows moderate but increasing flood vulnerability associated with blocked drainage channels and rapid urban expansion. Existing climate-resilient housing measures identified include elevated foundations, reinforced concrete structures, improved drainage systems, and raised floor platforms, although these measures remain largely inadequate and poorly regulated. The study concludes that integrating GIS-based planning, strict land-use regulation, climate-adaptive housing policies, and sustainable drainage infrastructure is essential for enhancing urban resilience and reducing flood risks in Nigerian cities.