Socio-economic implication of Yedzeram river bank erosion and floodings on the livelihood of Southern Mubi Community Dwellers, Adamawa, Nigeria

Southern Mubi is highly susceptible to flooding and river bank erosion. Understanding the community's vulnerability to these hazards is crucial for implementing effective mitigation measures. The study was conducted in the most vulnerable regions of Mubi along the stretch of the Yedzeram River (Gudu, Duvu/Girburum, Nasarawo and Dirbishi/Gandira communities). The aim and objectives of the study were to determine the effects of river bank erosion in the study area, to examine the causes of erosion, to determine the changing nature of income earning sources and effects on the livelihood of the inhabitants due to river bank erosion and flooding in the study area. To achieve these objectives, 113 households were randomly sampled from the study wards. In addition, 7 key informants were randomly selected from among local leaders: 4 “Maiagwan” and 3 officials responsible for disaster risk reduction and management at the state level. The results indicate that river bank erosion and flooding are the primary hazards affecting the communities in the study area. More than 60,000 families were made homeless, 7 have been reported dead, and damage to crops and properties amounted to several millions of Naira. Agriculture farmlands (66%), schools and small businesses (30%) are the main income sources impacted by these hazards with 48% of respondents heavily dependent on agriculture as their sole source of income. Land use change in the form of large-scale deforestation (41%), floodplain encroachment (42%), increased rainfall intensity (15%), and proximity to rivers were identified as perceived causes of riverbank erosion and consequent significant contributors to community vulnerability. Settlement along the bank should be curtailed to minimise the vulnerability and incur loss of the populace. It is recommended that flood plain zoning be carried out and the limit circulated. This will lessen the impact of this erosion on the populace along the Yedzeram River.