Assessing Nature-Based Flood Mitigation Measures at the General Area of the Confluence of Rivers Benue and Niger in Kogi State, Nigeria

Flooding in the confluence area of Rivers Benue and Niger remains a major environ-mental and socio-economic challenge which disrupts livelihoods, damages infrastructures and increase vulnerabilities in affected communities. The existing flood management in Nigeria relies on conventional engineering solutions, with limited to no consideration of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS). While NBS have been explored in other regions, their applicability to this area remains under-researched. This study assessed the potential of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) for mitigating flood risks in this region through the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing (RS), and hydrological modeling. Landsat imagery (2012-2023), Digital Elevation Models (DEM), soil, and climate datasets were utilized alongside HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS models, and Google Earth Engine (GEE) for flood extent analysis. Results showed peak flood coverage in 2018 (172.68 km²), followed by a decline to 99.12 km² in 2023. Flooding trends were attributed to increased rainfall variability, land-use changes, and inadequate drainage infrastructure. A suitability analysis for NBS implementation identified areas appropriate for wetland restoration, afforestation, and sustainable drainage systems. The study highlights the potential of integrated NBS and engineered measures in enhancing long-term flood resilience.