Comparative Analysis Of Housing Quality And Housing Degeneration In High- And Low-Density Residential Areas Within Lokoja Metropolis, Nigeria

Aliyu Olorunshola Sherifat, Adams Sesan John, Owemidu Femi Bamidele, Abdulwahid Yusuf

Keywords: Comparative analysis, housing quality, degeneration, residential areas.

Abstract

Housing crisis remains a major issue in urban areas like Lokoja, Nigeria, where rapid urbanization has led to overstretched and dilapidated accommodation. This study examines housing conditions, facilities, and degeneration in high-density and low-density residential areas of Lokoja. A
field survey was conducted in Lokoja, sampling 400 households in Adankolo, Lokongoma, Sarki-noma, and Zone 8. Findings showed significant differences in housing quality and degeneration between high-density and low-density areas. High-density areas faced prominent housing degeneration issues, including poor drainage, inadequate waste disposal, and pollution, impacting residents’ health and environment. In high-density
areas, houses were mostly built with mud bricks and zinc roofs, with pit
latrines and outdoor facilities, whereas low-density areas had better amenities like cement-block houses, aluminum roofs, and water closets. The study confirmed that housing degeneration was more pronounced in high-density areas compared to low-density areas in Lokoja, Nigeria. Statistical analysis (t-test) revealed a significant difference in housing degeneration between the two areas (Calculated t-Value = 6.154 > Tabulated t-Value = 1.725, p=0.05). The study concluded that poor infrastructure, inadequate waste management, and pollution were major concerns in high-density areas, requiring targeted interventions to improve housing conditions and environmental sustainability. Addressing these issues is crucial to mitigate the impact of housing degeneration on residents’ health and well-being.

Author Biography

Aliyu, Olorunshola Sherifat

Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Kogi State, Nigeria

Adams, Sesan John

Department of Geography and Planning Sciences, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria

Email: [email protected]

Owemidu, Femi Bamidele

Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Kogi State, Nigeria

Abdulwahid, Yusuf

Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Kogi State, Nigeria

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