How Vulnerable is Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria to Climate Change?

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study was to identify and map the vulnerability of the study area to climate change. Study Area: Located in the South Eastern coastal area of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State is highly vulnerable to hazards that are associated with climate change – erosion, flooding and sea level rise. Methodology: In this research, some of the key determinants of vulnerability were identified and mapped based on recommendations in literature. Data on the three main vulnerability components of exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity were produce and combined in a Geographic Information System (GIS) environment to reveal the vulnerability of the study area to climate change. Results: The resultant vulnerability surface showed that the High vulnerability class covers an area of 616 km2 (9%), Medium 4996 km2 (73%), and Low 1232 km2 (18%). While High Vulnerability areas are found in parts of Uyo, Ikot Ekpene, Eket, Itu, Nsit Ibom, Okobo, Oron and Itu, Medium in the other North East and Southern LGAs, and the Low vulnerability are found in the North East portion of the study area. Conclusion: The study has revealed the ability of vulnerability maps to communicate information concerning environmental risks. In this way, disaster impact reduction can be communicated effectively to stake holders, hence leading to a better understanding of climate change mitigation.