Development of Geographic Information System-Driven Security Command and Control System for Enhancing Emergency Response and Community Safety in Kwara State

Abstract

This paper examined the development of a Geographic Information System (GIS)-driven Security Command and Control framework to enhance emergency response and community safety in Kwara State, Nigeria. Using a convergent mixed-methods design, data were collected from 387 security personnel through structured questionnaires and 20 key informants through semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Findings reveal persistent challenges, including delayed emergency response, weak inter-agency coordination, inadequate surveillance, and limited adoption of geospatial technologies. High-risk hotspots were identified in Ifelodun, Patigi, Edu, Ekiti, and Kaiama Local Government Areas. The paper proposed a GIS-enabled framework incorporating real-time incident tracking, hotspot mapping, predictive analytics, and multi-agency coordination to strengthen security operations. It concluded that adopting GIS technologies can significantly improve emergency response efficiency and community safety, provided that infrastructural, financial and capacity constraints are adequately addressed