Examining liveability in the informal community of Kabawa, Nigeria

Abstract

This article examines the nature and causes of liveability challenges faced by the residents of Kabawa, an informal community south-east of Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State, North-Central Nigeria, and points out solutions to the identified problems. Liveability concepts were adopted, while both primary and secondary data were used. The research instruments used included a structured questionnaire, an observation checklist, and a housing facility survey. A total of 180 household heads/respondents were randomly selected for the study. The study establishes that the community exhibited slum characteristics, including poor housing conditions, filthy environment, poor sanitation, indiscriminate waste disposal, and acute lack of basic infrastructure. Illiteracy, poverty, poor maintenance of the available facilities, and lack of participation in governance are common challenges reported by residents. The study recommends improved planning and partnership between government and other community development stakeholders towards achieving improved liveability through participatory, community-centred development and a financial framework.