Assessment of Government Institutions in Service Delivery for Inhabitants of Informal Settlements, Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

The increase in population and human activities are escalating the demand on the limited land available for settlements in Lagos, Nigeria. This has generated several informal settlements in most cities in the State. However, it is the responsibility of Government institutions to ensure that lands and housing units are allocated effectively. This study assessed Government institutions’ intervention in equitable service delivery of land and housing units for the inhabitants of informal settlements in Lagos. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, the research employed both primary and secondary data (maps). Five local governments with identified 23 informal settlements were randomly selected. Three (3) sets of questionnaires were administered; two (2) to government agencies while the other (1) to residents. Ten (10) respondents were randomly selected from each settlement for the study, having a sample size of 230 respondents for the survey.  A total of 230 questionnaires were randomly distributed to residents within the 23 informal areas selected. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that the majority of inhabitants were unable to meet up with the requirements of development permit and approval; they felt neglected and lacked access to basic amenities, lands, housing resources and units. The government institutions lacked the capacity and implementation of planning policies. Based on the findings, it was recommended that there should be adequate personnel and effective enforcement of policies.

Keywords: Government institutions, low-income groups, land, housing units, informal settlements

DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/14-1-03

Publication date: January 31^st 2024