Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction and Environmental Resilience in FCT Abuja, Nigeria

This study examined community-based disaster risk reduction and environmental resilience in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The target population comprised 3,564,126 residents based on the 2016 population projection reported by the National Bureau of Statistics. A sample size of 384 respondents was selected using a multistage sampling technique, out of which 360 valid questionnaires were retrieved and analyzed using frequencies and percentages. Key informant interviews were also conducted to complement the questionnaire data. The study found that community-based disaster risk reduction contributes positively to environmental resilience, with 83% of respondents agreeing that community awareness contributes to better environmental practices. The finding indicates that effective community awareness and participation can improve environmental practices and strengthen community capacity to cope with environmental hazards. The study recommends that the FCT Administration and Area Councils should strengthen community-based environmental awareness and disaster-risk reduction programs, particularly through regular sensitization, improved local early-warning systems, environmental sanitation and drainage maintenance.