ASSESSMENT OF PERI – URBAN ZONES OF BENIN CITY, NIGERIA: A FOCUS ON EKIADOLOR COMMUNITY.

Abstract

This research work aimed at determining the character and impact of peri-urban Zones in Benin City,Nigeria in a bid to enhance their habitability. The objectives are to identify the factors of attraction to the selected peri-urban settlement, characterize the selected peri-urban settlement and identify its impact on habitability; and access the level of infrastructural development in the settlement. A peri urban settlement, Ekiadolor was selected as a case study. The settlement has a population of 5,593 consisting of 1,350 residential buildings. A simple random sampling was employed for selection of buildings to be sampled. 393 buildings were randomly selected and one person interviewed in each building (heads of households). The methods used in this study include: observation, interviews, Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and questionnaire administration. A structured multiple choice questionnaire divided into two sections vis; Socio Economic Survey and Physical Survey of facilities was used to elicit information from the inhabitants. The information obtained from the various sections were presented through the use of tables, charts, maps, pictures and figures. The study revealed that there is no significant relationship between individuals’ desire to reside in Ekiadolor and cost of land, level of income and tribe. It was also discovered that the area experienced a rapid growth in the last ten years which led to sporadic development of buildings. However these buildings are built without conformity to any building regulation and standards as greater percentage of them does not have building permit. Most of the buildings are also in poor condition as they lack adequate facilities such as kitchen, toilet and bathroom. Other problems identified are the poor state of the roads, lack of waste and sewage disposal, poor hygienic and sanitary conditions, lack of adequate infrastructures; such as schools, hospitals, water and electricity. To solve these problems it was recommended that some land policies and official control procedures such as master planning, land use planning, development control should be evolved and implemented by housing experts, urban planners and policy makers. In addition, adequate attention should be given to the provision of necessary facilities. Other recommended measures include: facility upgrading programme, awareness on Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) Programme aimed at creating zero tolerance to open defecation and improving sanitary condition and embarking on community penetrating campaign on willingness to contribute financially towards community development.