Parallel Session D 14.00
Cyril Effiong
School of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Birmingham
Extreme flooding events on Nigeria’s Lower Niger floodplains are increasingly threatening the resilience of farmers’ livelihoods and community stability. This study examines the adaptive strategies that farmers employ across macro, meso, and micro levels to respond to and recover from these recurrent events. Using a multi-scalar approach that combines the Sustainable Livelihoods and Political Economy frameworks, the research investigates how national policies and market forces shape regional and local responses, while individual and household-level adaptations contribute to recovery and resilience.
Data collection includes surveys, interviews, and focus groups with stakeholders ranging from policymakers to community leaders and individual farmers, providing a comprehensive view of both structural and grassroots coping strategies. The findings highlight that while national policies shape the availability of resources, community-level initiatives such as cooperative resource management, early warning systems, and localized adaptation strategies are crucial in restoring livelihoods and supporting physical and mental health resilience in the aftermath of floods.
This study underscores the need for multi-level interventions to build sustainable floodplain communities, recommending policies that reinforce local resilience strategies and contribute to reconstructing stable and supportive environments for affected farmers. By advancing an understanding of resilience within the context of extreme flooding, this research provides insights applicable to global efforts in building resilient communities in the face of extreme events.
About the presenter
Cyril Effiong is a researcher whose work centres on understanding the resilience of river-based livelihoods in flood-prone regions of Nigeria. Using a political economy lens, Cyril examines the vulnerabilities of farmers and fishers, exploring the structural factors that shape their exposure to climate-induced hazards like flooding. He applies a sustainable livelihood framework to analyse the socio-economic characteristics and coping mechanisms of these communities, emphasizing the need for equitable policies and sustainable practices to enhance their resilience.
Cyril holds a PhD in Geography and Environmental Science from the University of Birmingham. His research integrates Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Urban Planning to provide a multidimensional perspective on climate adaptation strategies. By combining these tools with critical social theory, Cyril’s work highlights the intersection of environmental sustainability and social justice, advocating for inclusive solutions that prioritize the voices of marginalized communities.
In addition to his academic achievements, Cyril is actively engaged in peer-reviewing research on climate change, livelihoods, and loss and damage. His commitment to academic rigor supports the development of high-quality, impactful scholarship. Cyril’s professional affiliations include Associate Membership of the Royal Geographical Society and membership in the British Hydrological Society, reflecting his dedication to advancing global discussions on climate resilience and socio-economic equity.
Beyond his research, Cyril enjoys reading, playing football, traveling, and fostering meaningful connections. These personal pursuits enrich his worldview and reinforce his commitment to creating sustainable and just pathways for communities grappling with climate challenges.