Strengthening disaster preparedness and health security in Niger state, Nigeria through a WHO STAR–based multi-hazard risk assessment

Niger State in central Nigeria faces a range of natural, biological, and security hazards. To inform preparedness and health security planning, a multi-hazard risk assessment was conducted using WHO's Strategic Tool for Assessing Risks (STAR), this is one of the first applications of WHO STAR at a state level in Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted using the WHO STAR. Stakeholders involved identified hazards across natural, biological, technological, and societal domains through review of surveillance, disaster, and meteorological data. Hazards were scored for likelihood, impact, vulnerability, and coping capacity, with composite risk indices used to rank and categorize them. Priority hazards were further analysed for seasonality and geographic distribution, and findings validated through consensus. Eighteen major hazards were identified, spanning biological, environmental, and societal. Seven hazards emerged as very high risk, notably flooding, banditry/kidnapping. Six were high risk (e.g. fire outbreaks), four moderate (e.g. acute flaccid paralysis), and one low risk (diphtheria). Six hazards showed clear seasonal patterns. Priority hazards were further examined for geographic distribution and validated through consensus. The STAR assessment produced an evidence-based risk profile highlighting flooding, banditry/kidnapping, boat mishaps, cholera, and rain/windstorms as the most critical hazards. Actionable recommendations were developed to support preparedness, mitigation, and response efforts across sectors. The findings offer a structured basis for strengthening disaster risk governance and can inform the development and implementation of Niger state's emergency preparedness plans.