Leveraging ICT for Effective Disaster Management in Abuja, Nigeria: The Role of E-Governance Tools

Abstract

The increasing frequency of disasters in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has exposed limitations in traditional disaster management strategies. The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) offers opportunities to improve preparedness and responsiveness. This study examined the impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on disaster management in the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), using the disaster management cycle, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery, as the analytical framework. A survey design was employed, and 310 questionnaires were purposively distributed to 122 FEMA personnel and 188 community members in disaster-affected areas. Data were analyzed using the independent samples t-test, and the study was anchored on Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation Theory. Findings revealed moderate mitigation efforts hindered by limited adoption of e-governance tools and outdated infrastructure. Preparedness was weakened by conventional training methods, and disaster response was constrained by poor ICT facilities and a lack of skilled personnel. The study recommends the adoption of emerging technologies such as drones, rescue robots, Doppler radar, and Incident Management Systems (IMS), along with continuous ICT-based training and community education. Strengthening web-based disaster platforms and enforcing safety regulations are also essential to enhance resilience in the FCT.