ASSESSMENT OF URBAN FLOODING CAUSES AND DRAINAGE SYSTEM EFFICIENCY IN BAYELSA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study assessed the causes of urban flooding and the efficiency of drainage systems in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with 400 respondents selected from Yenagoa, Brass Town, Nembe Town and Amassoma. Data were collected using the Urban Flooding and Drainage Efficiency Questionnaire (UFDEQ) ,which yielded a reliability coefficient of 0.87 using Cronbach’s Alpha and analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and independent sample t-test at the 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that the drainage systems exhibits moderate but insufficient effectiveness in managing flooding, particularly during heavy rainfall. Poor maintenance, waste clogging and urban land-use changes were identified as key factors reducing drainage efficiency. The results further showed no significant difference in the perceptions of residents and urban planners regarding drainage system performance. The study concludes that existing drainage infrastucture is inadequate to cope with increasing flood pressures. It recommends improved maintenance practices, stricter waste management enforcement, and integration of effective drainage planning into urban development.