In a groundbreaking study, renowned GIS specialist Sikiru Abdulkareem, along with fellow researchers Elijah Adefisan and Ropo Orimoloye, has demonstrated how modern geographic technologies can be leveraged to identify areas vulnerable to flooding in the bustling metropolis of Ibadan, Nigeria. The research, published in the Journal of Environment and Earth Science, brings to light how the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing techniques can reshape urban planning and disaster management, potentially saving lives and property.
Sikiru Abdulkareem, an indigene of Ibadan and one of the lead researchers, draws on years of expertise in GIS, which he honed during his tenure at prestigious institutions such as the National Space Research & Development Agency (NASRDA) and Geodigital Nigeria Limited. His work, focusing on flood management, presents an innovative approach to identifying high-risk flood zones, which include Ibadan’s flood-prone areas like Odo-Ona, Apata, Eleyele, Molete, and others.
Reflecting on the power of GIS in flood management, Abdulkareem noted: “Flooding is a natural disaster that can have devastating effects on communities, infrastructure, and the environment. GIS offers powerful tools to manage and mitigate the impacts of flooding through advanced mapping, analysis, and real-time data integration.” His deep understanding of GIS technology emphasizes its capacity to provide real-time monitoring and early warning systems for communities at risk, significantly improving emergency preparedness.
Abdulkareem highlighted specific tools that make this possible, such as integrating data from weather stations, river gauges, and satellite imagery. These allow for the mapping of flood-prone areas and help authorities make informed, life-saving decisions. “Real-time GIS dashboards displaying current flood levels, forecasted rainfall, and predicted flood extents provide crucial information for emergency response teams,” he explained.
The study processed topographic maps and satellite images to generate critical data such as land cover maps and Digital Terrain Models (DTMs). This detailed mapping revealed that areas along the banks of the Ona and Ogunpa rivers were particularly vulnerable to flooding. According to Abdulkareem, the improper urban planning and unchecked population growth in these areas exacerbate the risk of flash floods, putting lives and properties at risk.
Abdulkareem’s work not only identified the most vulnerable areas but also presented solutions. By improving urban planning and applying GIS-driven flood management systems, Ibadan can reduce the impact of future flood disasters. “The application of GIS in flood management systems has revolutionized how we assess, mitigate, and respond to flooding,” Abdulkareem concluded.
His forward-thinking approach and technical expertise place Abdulkareem at the forefront of flood disaster mitigation in Nigeria, a country historically plagued by seasonal flooding. Through his efforts, the potential for smarter, data-driven flood management has become a reality, offering hope to vulnerable communities across Ibadan and beyond.
With the growing impact of climate change and urbanization on flood risks, Abdulkareem’s contributions to disaster management, utilizing GIS technology, are not only timely but indispensable. His ongoing work promises to be a beacon of hope for cities facing similar challenges across Africa.
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