Governance in the Digital Era: An Assessment of the Effectiveness of Big Data on Emergency Management in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

The frequency and intensity of natural disasters have increased significantly in recent decades, and this trend is expected to continue. Facing these possible and unexpected disasters, emergency management has become a serious governance challenge in the digital era across the world. The objective of the paper is to assess the effectiveness of big data on emergency management in Lagos state, Nigeria. The paper argues that the adequacy of a modern government could largelybe measured by her immediate response to the emergency situation and the prevention of its occurrence in the society. It observes that the absence of well-articulated, organized institutional structure to co-ordinate response activities during emergency situations in most developing countries like Nigeria. It notes that Lagos State government has, however, developed a preparedness plan which is currently assisting all stakeholders, to anticipate/ implement recovery measures speedily to reduce the effects of emergency on the citizens. This paper provides an account of how recent big data project initiatives have been successful in managing emergencies in Lagos. Based on the positive effects of the Lagos model, the paper suggests that the federal and other state governments in Nigeria should follow the footsteps of Lagos State government by developing similar emergency management preparedness plans. This will enhance their ability to develop and speedily implement effective response and recovery measures. The paper highlights the challenges facing management of emergency through big data in Lagos State and proffer remedial actions for effective management of emergency in the digital era. The paper concludes that big data will fundamentally change and improve emergency response if properly embraced.

Keywords: Big Data, Digital Era, Disaster, Emergency Management, Governance