Entrenching an efficient urban infrastructure development in Uyo, Nigeria: A pragmatic approach

Abstract

Urban infrastructure covers all facilities or services provided to support structural and economic development in urban centres. It is developed and maintained by public agencies to facilitate the achievement of common socioeconomic objectives. This paper is concerned with infrastructure such as accessible roads, electricity, pipe-borne water, telecommunication and waste disposal system. Two hundred (200) questionnaires were administered on residents of Uyo urban. The respondents were categorized into four groups including civil/public servants, students, cyclists and house wives/petty traders. To each group, fifty questionnaires were administered using random sampling techniques. Out of which 188 copies representing 94% were properly completed and returned. It was pertinent to conduct oral interviews as a means of extracting more information. Statutory agencies responsible for the provision of infrastructure were also visited such as Ministry of Works and Transport, Akwa Ibom Water Company Limited in Uyo. The results are presented statistically in tables and analyzed. The research observed that the sector is characterized by inadequacy and inefficiency to the detriment of the public. It concludes that public private partnership should be introduced into the sector as it appears the government alone cannot provide and maintain urban infrastructure.