Ecosystem destruction and disaster risk incubation- A case of wetland loss and flood disasters in Makurdi town of Nigeria

Disaster risk is incubated through series of events that shape and reshape hazards and vulnerability. The gradual destruction of a diversity of ecosystems leading to the depletion of ecosystem services is an incubation period for many disasters as the case of Makurdi wetlands and flood disasters. Makurdi wetlands have been destroyed with only a few remaining according to a recent thirty-year study. This suggests the loss of very important ecosystem services that they provide including defense against surging flood waters. In the corresponding period, increased flood disaster incidences have been reported in Makurdi with a corresponding increase in size and intensity of devastating impact on the populations. Surprisingly surveys carried out in Makurdi on the causes of flood demonstrate a very limited knowledge on the significance of wetlands in the management of flood disasters. The ability of ecosystems to continue to provide ecosystem services require deliberate management action through sustainable practices, knowledge and attitudes of people who live near or within such ecosystems and who draw such services there from. This paper reviews and points to the risk incubation effect of long period of continuous wetland destruction in Makurdi. It draws scientific interest to the conservation of Makurdi wetlands and answer questions on the importance of wetlands in flood disasters prevention, management and recovery in Makurdi. It suggests improved wetland management practices and supports the conservation of the remaining Makurdi wetlands.