Towards Achieving Urban Environmental Sustainability in Lokoja Metropolis, Kogi State Nigeria

Abstract

The rapid increase in population, coupled with increase in the rate of urbanization, had lead to unplanned and uncontrolled expansion of Lokoja town. Consequently, this scenario has caused tremendous pressure on civic infrastructure systems, generated housing problems and unkempt environment among others. This study was carried out with the aid of Survey Research Design (SRD) using structured questionnaire, observation, photo-snaps, building demographic and housing facility survey. Using random sampling technique, every 5^th house in the five districts involved in the study was picked for interview, focusing on building characteristics, condition of sanitary and infrastructural facilities as well the quality of the environment. Findings revealed that the study area exhibit slum condition which has un-denied consequences on the socio-economic lifestyle, health of residents and the general outlook of the environment. On this basis, upgrading program through the provision Urban Basic Services (UBS) and improved sanitation strategies were recommended for sustainable management of the area. These include, among others, public enlightenment campaign, environmental education and reintroduction of effective sanitary inspection schemes.

Keywords: Environmental sustainability, uncontrolled expansion, slum, UBS, sanitary inspection.