Water Management with the Support of Geospatial Technology to Underpin Decision-Making in Abuja, Nigeria
Authors:   , Enechukwu Sylvia 
Published: May 2024

Water is a key resource for human health and welfare. In developing regions, particularly in Africa, population growth, urbanization, and climate change put immense pressures on the limited basic water infrastructure. A rapid increase in human migration and urban expansion further threatens infrastructure and amenities in Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja. Furthermore, the absence of a water management information system, coupled with the limited available data on water, especially its spatial distribution, affects the management of this critical resource. With the advent of Geospatial Technology, spatial deliveries of numerical data and various maps have supported the search for and accessibility of relevant data (e.g., population, rainfall and soil), as well as improved data management. However, the utilization of geospatial technology in Africa remains low compared to other regions of the world, which is attributed to challenges such as the substantial cost of acquiring and maintaining National Geospatial Data Infrastructure (NGDI). The potential role of Geospatial Technology in water resource management is enormous. It provides governmental and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) access to spatial information for effective decision-making and proper water management. This study aimed to demonstrate the potentials of geospatial technology, particularly Geographic Information Systems (GIS), as a planning and communication tool in water resource management in Abuja. The study employed a quantitative approach, which included field/household surveys conducted through the administration of questionnaires. Additionally, geospatial technology was utilized to acquire time-series satellite data and spatial information for analysing changes in land use cover. Subsequently, a qualitative approach was used, which involved conducting interviews to gather insights and perspectives related to water. Over all, the findings indicate that majority of residents depend on private and commercial alternatives to access water. The geospatial technology used provides both spatial and temporal visualization capabilities, enabling the observation of changes that have occurred within the study area over time. The Water Availability Map illustrates the uneven distribution of water across the study area. It shows that a majority of residents in the area are situated in regions with poor water availability ratio, which indicates moderate water coverage in these areas. These findings highlight the usefulness of the water model as a tool for communication and planning, offering a more efficient means for assessing water scarcity compared to conventional methods. The model serves as a valuable framework for a policy tool, offering policy makers and stakeholders essential information to guide urgent interventions through strategic planning, monitoring progress towards targets and facilitate critical decision-making regarding water provision. Furthermore, implementing proposed solutions, such as enhancing secure potable water sources and improving infrastructures, would positively impact the lives of the populace. This would result in more equitable planning decisions, fostering greater public participation, and ultimately enhancing people’s wellbeing. Lastly, the study findings will contribute to the pool of knowledge and educate future generations about the significance of water management.