An overview of humanitarian relief supply chains for victims of perennial flood disasters in Lagos, Nigeria (2010-2012)

Abstract

Purpose – Lagos is flooded perennially due to its low-lying coastal location. Empirical studies on the impacts of the disaster and humanitarian relief for the victims are scanty. The purpose of this paper is to assess the causes and severity of the floods, the aids to victims and the supply chains in six flood-prone local government areas (LGAs) of the metropolis comparatively. Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected using a questionnaire instrument that was administered to 292 victims and/or residents of 42 flooded neighborhoods in six LGAs of Lagos in the years 2010-2012. The administration was some few weeks after major incidences were reported for the respective years. Findings – The results show that floods are recurrent in the areas during every wet season (between May and October), emanate from both natural and human-induced causes and lead to large-scale human displacement and loss of assets. Humanitarian reliefs are from neighbors, spiritual homes and relatives mostly and are supplied directly to victims. These suggest gloomy implications for sustainable disaster management, humanitarian services and supply chains. Areas for further studies are highlighted. Originality/value – Studies in humanitarian relief and supply chains are scanty in the part of the world. The paper is original and not been considered for publication elsewhere.