Thesis (MArch) - Cyprus International University. Institute of Graduate Studies and Research Architecture Department

Urban resilience is vital in today's urbanized world, driven by rapid urbanization and the increasing impact of climate change. This abstract provides an overview of urban resilience, focusing on flood management and the case of Lagos, Nigeria. It outlines the methods used in the Lagos flood case study and summarizes key findings.
Urban resilience encompasses a city's ability to withstand, adapt to, and recover from various challenges, such as natural disasters, socio-economic disruptions, and environmental stressors. It comprises physical, social, and institutional aspects, ensuring the sustainability and adaptability of urban areas. Among urban challenges, flooding is a recurring and destructive threat, resulting from factors like extreme weather events, inadequate infrastructure, and poor land use planning. Effective flood risk management is crucial for urban resilience as it protects lives, property, and essential urban functions.
Lagos, Nigeria, faces significant flood vulnerability due to its low-lying coastal location and rapid population growth. Unplanned urban expansion into flood-prone areas exacerbates the challenge. Integrated urban planning is essential for flood resilience, addressing the impact of climate change, such as rising sea levels and erratic rainfall patterns.
In conclusion, urban resilience, particularly in flood management, requires holistic solutions. The Lagos case study emphasizes the need for context-specific strategies to address urban vulnerabilities. Interdisciplinary collaboration and nature-based solutions, like mangrove restoration, are essential. This study calls for urgent action to create a comprehensive strategy that safeguards Lagos from flooding and ensures a resilient and sustainable future for the city.