Livelihood Devastation and the Most Vulnerable Group During Flooding in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

: Flooding accounts for several natural disasters and deaths world-wide. Millions of people are exposed to floods yearly. In Nigeria, amidst several natural disasters, flooding is the most common. Climate change induced rise in sea level have increased the frequency and intensity of floods in the world. In Nigeria, the severe floods of 2012, 2018 and 2022 are typical examples. The study explored livelihood devastation and the most vulnerable group during flooding in Southern Ijaw Local Government of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Data were obtained using both primary and secondary sources. Cluster and simple random sampling techniques were adopted. The data analysis of the study revealed that women are the most vulnerable group during flooding in the study area. The study also identified that flooding has severe impact on livelihood, leading to the destruction of crops and fishes. It was thus recommended that challenges of vulnerable groups such as women and children should be addressed with priority during flood and post flood periods to enhance their capacities within the communities. Also, various subordinating rules against women in the communities, such as land rights should be investigated and stopped by the government. Government and relevant flood management agencies should provide proper social welfare for flood victims to cushion the effects of flooding. Those who are affected should be properly rehabilitated and provided with adequate relief materials