Housing Conditions in the FCT, Abuja-Nigeria: A Case Study of Gwagwalada Satellite Town

Abstract

The research investigated the housing conditions and problems in the Federal Capital city of Abuja-Nigeria: using Gwagwalada satellite town as a case study. The research also examine; the nature of housing pattern in the study area, causes of poor housing conditions in the study area and the effects of poor housing conditions in the study area. Data was sourced from both primary and secondary sources. At the end of the research, it was revealed that, the causes of poor housing conditions in the study area were; Population explosion, lack of proper waste management and uneven spacing of buildings which creates un-conducive environment among others. The study also showed that, there exist; dilapidating buildings especially in the unplanned sections; poor road network in some areas; poor waste disposal and management; and lack of good water supply in some areas. Recommendations were proffered which include; strict implementation of laws governing building, its standard and requirements and provision of necessary neighborhood facilities within the reach of the individual housing units in the study area, maintaining already existing structures and discouraging house owners from building sub-standard houses by ensuring they provide their building plans before commencing such projects. Keywords: Housing conditions, housing patterns, public health, dilapidated buildings, domestic waste, waste management, substandard houses, building materials, population explosion, building policies, building laws, housing Units, basic amenities, building infrastructures, Gwagwalada satellite town. DOI : 10.7176/JEES/9-4-13 Publication date : April 30 th 2019