The Impact of Geographic Information Systems on Emergency Management and Disaster Response in Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18485/ijdrm.2025.7.2.28Keywords:
disaster management, emergency response, emergency management, geographic information systems, technologyAbstract
Emergency and disaster management in Nigeria has been marked by inadequate preparation, disorganized structures, reliance on donor-driven models, and a lack of accessible data. These issues pose significant challenges and uncertainties for the country's disaster management approach. This study, therefore, examines the impact of GIS on emergency management and disaster response in Nigeria. The study uses a cross-sectional design to assess the effect of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) on emergency management and disaster response in Nigeria. A quantitative approach was utilized, with data collected via a structured questionnaire from stakeholders involved in disaster management across Nigeria. A simple random sampling method was employed with a sample size of 124 respondents from all six geopolitical zones in Nigeria to ensure regional diversity. Data was analyzed with SPSS version 28. The study assessed the role of GIS technology in strengthening emergency management and disaster response in Nigeria. Results showed that respondents generally perceived GIS positively, with particular emphasis on the importance of data availability (6.39±0.78) and system maintenance (6.51±0.81). While satisfaction with existing emergency response was mostly neutral (means ranging from 3.81±1.71 to 4.43±1.85), there was strong agreement on the need for improvements (6.24±1.14). Differences were observed across professions, with IT and Technology professionals recording the highest satisfaction (6.36±0.46). Sociodemographic factors also influenced perceptions, as older respondents reported higher satisfaction (6.17±0.51) than younger ones (5.38±0.17), with statistical significance (p<0.05). Although age and gender were not significant predictors, respondents outside Management and Consulting had higher odds (AOR=20.422, p<0.05) of expressing satisfaction with the emergency response system. The study demonstrates that GIS is perceived as essential for strengthening emergency preparedness and response in Nigeria. Findings highlight critical gaps in data sharing, funding, and system coordination and provide evidence-based insights to improve GIS integration nationwide. The findings highlight the need for improvements in GIS technology applications and emergency response systems in Nigeria.
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