Dr. Etim Eteng, Mr. Okputu Joseph, Mr. Christopher Abetianbe
Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Calabar
The study examined the socio-economic status and access to sanitary facilities amongst households in Ugep Community located in Yakurr Local Government Council of Cross River State, Nigeria. Findings revealed that low-income levels and nature of occupation in the face of limited resources show their impacts on the quality of sanitary facilities available. Data was collected through the administration of 500 questionnaires with family heads as points of primary contact. Maslow’s Hierarchical Needs Theory and the Basic Needs Concept provided background insights to the study.
Results indicate regression model summary with coefficients of multiple determination R2=0.605 or 60.5%. This indicate that about 60.5% of household location can be attributed to access to toilet facilities sources. The F-value of 3.826 was significant at 0.98 level. Since 0.98 is greater than the 0.05 confidence level that was set for this study, we accept the null hypothesis (H0) and reject the alternative hypothesis. Income and occupation do not significantly impact on access to sanitary facilities in the area.
On the second hypothesis, since the calculated F-value of 0.20 is less than the table value of 2.69, we accept the H0 that there is no significant difference in sanitary facilities (toilet) amongst wards in the study area.
Awareness creation on sanitary practices by health and related government agencies as well as community members themselves should be encouraged. Enforcement of sanitary processes and regulations at the ward level through environmental sanitation days and incentives for compliance and sanctions against non-compliance.
Government and private organizations should implement and encourage economic empowerment initiatives to improve the livelihoods of the residents of the community.