Journal of Development Communication And Applied Theatre

nations. This study aimed to assess the communication strategies employed by Nigeria's National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in managing flood disasters in Nasarawa State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja. The study addressed persistent gaps in communication reach and effectiveness among vulnerable populations. The study was anchored on Risk Communication Theory, which posits that effective communication of hazard information empowers communities to make informed protective decisions, and Communication Accommodation Theory, which holds that communicators adjust their style and language to bridge social and cultural differences. A mixed-methods research design was employed, with data collected from 450 residents in Doma Local Government Area and Abaji Area Council through structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings revealed that NEMA utilises a multi-channel approach integrating digital platforms and traditional media. Whilst this improved awareness among urban populations, with 64% confirming receipt of flood information through multiple channels, significant gaps persisted rurally, with 72% reporting limited access due to poor infrastructure and language barriers. Key challenges included inconsistent messaging (58%), technical jargon (47%), and weak feedback mechanisms (61%). The study recommends strengthening community participation, promoting culturally sensitive messaging, bridging the digital divide, and enhancing stakeholder collaboration for more inclusive disaster communication in Nigeria.

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