Evaluating Housing Problems through Participatory Rural Appraisal in Lokoja Nigeria

Abstract

Lokoja, a medium sized community in the Middle Belt of Nigeria
experienced a massive influx of population in the last twelve years. This study examined housing problems that resulted thereafter. Through a participatory appraisal using group discussion and brainstorming, transect walk and matrix ranking, a sampled resident groups were able to identify the progress in housing, problems and perceived solutions for effective planning. It was observed that the local resident is aware of his environment, the contribution of the government towards solving housing problems and has perceived recipe to the incessant housing problems. Experience on the field using PRA showed that only when fieldworkers appeared ready to learn from local residents did they get more in depth information about their development.

Key Words: development, evaluation, housing, participatory, and topdown.