THE IMPACT OF FLOODING IN THE UNIVERSITY OF CROSS RIVER STATE (UNICROSS) STAFF QUARTERS, CALABAR CAMPUS

ABSTRACT This study critically examined the impact of flooding within the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) Staff Quarters, Calabar Campus, with the overarching aim of evaluating flood risk vulnerability, identifying major causes, analysing the resultant environmental effects, and proposing mitigation strategies. Data were obtained from both primary and secondary sources, including structured questionnaires administered to 416 households (of which 389 were retrieved), oral interviews, field observations, and institutional records. Quantitative analysis using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation (r = –0.211; p = 0.689) revealed a weak and statistically insignificant relationship between the level and effects of flooding, indicating that infrastructural resilience and preparedness, rather than flood magnitude alone, largely determine the extent of impact. Findings showed that 26.2% of respondents experienced moderate flood vulnerability, while 16.2% each reported high and very high vulnerability, signifying widespread exposure. Climate change (mean = 4.8), excessive rainfall (mean = 4.2), and river overflow (mean = 4.0) were identified as principal drivers, compounded by poor drainage and unregulated campus expansion. The effects were multidimensional ranging from damage to buildings and infrastructure (mean = 4.1) and disruption of mobility (mean = 4.0) to erosion, disease incidence, and social dislocation. The study concludes that flooding in the UNICROSS Staff Quarters is a complex interplay of climatic variability, infrastructural inadequacy, and planning deficiencies. It recommends integrated, evidence-based flood management measures encompassing improved drainage systems, resilient land-use planning, and community engagement to enhance long-term adaptive capacity and institutional resilience within the university environment.