Enhanced Flood Risk Assessment of Coastal Communities in Southeastern Nigeria: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This review investigates the growing flood risks facing coastal communities in Southeastern Nigeria, emphasizing the urgent need for more resilient and inclusive risk assessment methodologies. It synthesizes current literature on flood risk assessment (FRA), identifying key gaps such as limited community participation, poor integration of climate change projections, and inadequate socioeconomic analysis. Employing insights from geospatial technologies, hydrological modeling, and participatory frameworks, this paper highlights advanced strategies for improving flood resilience. Recommendations include establishing real-time monitoring systems, enhancing policy frameworks, integrating socioeconomic and climate data, and promoting community-based approaches. The findings support the development of a comprehensive, data-driven, and context-specific flood management strategy critical for safeguarding vulnerable communities in the region. These findings also provide actionable insights for policymakers and urban planners, helping to inform adaptive policy development, land-use planning, and disaster preparedness strategies tailored to the specific needs of Southeastern Nigeria.