The implementation of building regulations in rural Nigerian
communities is uniquely challenged by socio-economic, cultural, and logistical
factors. Effective building standards are critical for reducing risks
associated with unsafe construction, as an estimated 40% of structures in rural
Nigeria face structural issues or hazards due to non-compliance. This study
investigates the barriers to implementing building regulations in Nigeria's
rural communities, where such regulations are vital for ensuring structural
safety, environmental sustainability, and adherence to planning standards. This
research is centred in Enugu State, comprising 17 rural Local Government Areas
(LGAs) located in southeastern Nigeria. Using a mixed-method approach involving
a structured survey with architects, town planners, and community leaders, as
the three critical stakeholder groups. This is a quantitative study. A
purposive sampling technique was employed. The census sample size for the
survey was 253. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages,
means, and standard deviations, were used to summarise the data. The study
revealed the key challenges that include limited awareness of regulations,
inadequate enforcement mechanisms, socio-economic constraints, cultural resistance,
and lack of technical and financial resources. The survey findings revealed
that 61.2 % of respondents express a high level of awareness of campaigns and
training programs for local artisans (53.1%), indicating a positive inclination
towards embracing new approaches. Moreover, logistical impediments, such as
inadequate infrastructure (48%) and insufficient personnel or transportation
(35%), exacerbate these challenges, reflecting the structural hurdles faced by
regulatory bodies in rural areas. The findings underscore the need for targeted
strategies to enhance regulatory awareness, improve inter-stakeholder
cooperation, and address resource shortages. This research proposes actionable
recommendations aimed at creating a more adaptive regulatory framework that
aligns with rural realities, promoting safer and more sustainable building
practices across Nigeria’s rural communities.
Author(s) Details
Ozigbo, Ikechukwu
William-Johnson
Department of Estate Management, Faculty of Environmental Studies, University
of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria.
Ozigbo, Chinelo
Adline
Department of Estate Management, Faculty of Environmental Studies,
University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria.
Mba, Emeka Joseph
Department of Architecture, Faculty of Environmental Studies, University of
Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria.
Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/crgese/v4/6408
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