EFFECT PROMOTING DISABILITY-INCLUSIVE DISASTER RISK REDUCTION IN NIGERIA FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Millions of people in Nigeria are affected by natural and man-made disasters such as droughts, floods, landslides and fires. Disasters affect persons with disabilities, just as they do other groups of people that experience a higher level of exclusion. The frequency of these disasters is increasing and their impact is heightened by poverty, increased population density, rampant and uncontrolled urbanisation, environmental degradation and climate change. However, the impact these events can have on people, especially persons with disabilities, and property can be significantly mitigated by effective Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). This study gives an insight to Disaster Risk Reduction and explains the concept of Disability-inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DIDRR). The paper also discusses strategies that empower communities and local institutions to prepare for, reduce the impact of, and respond to disasters and, in the long-term, increase their resilience. The paper further discusses how these strategies are inclusive, enabling the most at-risk groups, and especially people with disabilities, to become actors in disaster risk reduction and to benefit from protection. This study also highlighted some strategies which can re-enforce disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction such as including persons with disabilities as valued stakeholders in disaster risk management activities, increasing awareness on the safety and security needs of persons with disabilities, ensuring that new construction, rehabilitation and reconstruction are accessible to persons with disabilities.