As the world increasingly focuses on sustainable development, the pressing issue of climate change, primarily caused by a combination of diverse anthropogenic activities, continues to pose the greatest threat to the African continent. Climate change has become the most pressing issue facing the world today, and Nigeria is one of those countries most vulnerable to its effects, as exemplified by the extensive flooding that affected over twenty-two (22) states, including Gombe State, and displaced a significant population in 2022. These disasters have caused enormous damage and displacement, and have had a massive impact on the lives of Nigerians. Panguru, a community located in Kashere, Gombe State, stands as an exemplary case of a community facing numerous climate related challenges. Additionally, there has been inconclusive debate about the significance of OpenStreetMap data in Nigeria and its useability. However, OpenStreetMap (OSM) data holds the potential to significantly improve the livelihoods of Panguru and other similar communities, enabling them to better prepare for climate induced disasters while building their resilience towards climate change. Addressing the complex challenges posed by climate change requires a collaborative effort that surpasses the capacity of any single entity, whether government, NGOs, or individuals.

The constant shifting dynamics of our environment, coupled with rapid development in some communities, make comprehensive monitoring difficult for the government and corporate bodies. In the face of these challenges, it is now paramount to prioritize efficient documentation and monitoring of these vulnerable communities for more effective disaster response and climate resilience. Additionally, the challenges faced in disaster management in Nigeria stem from a lack of reliable and accurate open-source data. This limitation inhibits the efforts of response teams and organizations in offering emergency related assistance to affected communities due to a lack of essential information to access those areas. There have also been initiatives set up to encourage increased volunteer participation in mapping structure, but their current number is insufficient. As a result, the need to encourage volunteers and prioritize the use of OpenStreetMap data to effectively document and monitor the vulnerability of these communities is essential in these times.

The goal of this study is to look into the potential of open street mapping in gathering and documenting information about vulnerable communities, with the primary aim of improving disaster response and building climate resilience in similar communities across the country, using Panguru community in Gombe State, Nigeria, as an example. The primary data was gathered through community engagement, while secondary data was gathered and integrated from sources such as OSM, Google Earth, OCHA, and Landsat. This study's methodology began with a review of data on vulnerability indices, disaster response rates, and current OpenStreetMap data on Nigeria's vulnerable communities. The Panguru community leaders were tasked with gathering detailed information on the communities’ environmental and socioeconomic conditions. Geospatial software was used to conduct spatial analysis to identify infrastructure distribution and gaps in Gombe State.

According to the findings, the Panguru community faces challenges due to a lack of data and access to essential infrastructure, resulting in isolation from major communities due to frequent flooding. The area is prone to flooding, and the only connecting road is a frequently flooded valley that has killed over five (5) people in the past. OpenStreetMap (OSM) data has the potential to guide government bodies in making decisions about where to locate critical structures such as road networks, clean water facilities, and hospitals, which can aid in disaster response. OSM provides alternative ways to help vulnerable and underdeveloped communities build climate resilience. Openstreetmapping participation and inclusivity encourage local knowledge and community mapping, which allows the residents to identify prone risk zones that are not visible on satellite imagery and also learn about their own vulnerability. The crowd sourced data allows for more flexibility to provide current information on things. The potential of OpenStreetMap data extends beyond its ability to document infrastructure but also to attract development by providing accurate and current information by mapping existing structures, highlighting the potential for economic activities, and showcasing the community's unique cultural heritage. These data can help to generate interest among investors, tourists, and development parastatals, leading to increased opportunities for social and economic development.

This study emphasized the significance of using OSM data to improve the lives of communities like Panguru. More data can be collected in previously inaccessible areas by increasing volunteer engagement and capacity building. This would help build the communities' efforts toward sustainable development and climate resilience. The combination of OSM data and GIS data can provide valuable information for the relocation of small communities, particularly those located in floodplains or flood risk zones.

Keywords: Climate resilience, Disaster response, OpenStreetMap (OSM), Nigeria, Vulnerable communities