CHALLENGES OF SLUMS DWELLERS IN SOKOTO METROPOLIS: TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE CITY

Abstract

This study identified challenges of slum dwellers in Sokoto metropolis and also assessed its track towards
becoming a sustainable city. The study employed both the quantitative and qualitative method of data
collection. One hundred and twenty (120) respondents were surveyed through purposive sampling
techniques. Open ended questionnaire was administered to head of household and Focus Group
Discussions (FGDs) was conducted in each of the six slum areas identified in this study. These include:
Gidan Sauro, Gidan Rana, Sagin Lemu, Sabon Garin Mai-kwabo and Mabera (Kantin sani) and Nufawa.
The method for data analysis used was simple descriptive statistics using SPSS version 20 and report on
FGDs. The responses from the questionnaire were deduced and classified into six major themes:
inadequate social amenities and infrastructure, crimes and social vices, congestion and low level of human
capital development as well as environmental challenges and indiscriminate dumping of waste. The study
therefore concludes that there is inadequacy of basic amenities and infrastructure with very poor
environmental condition. The study therefore recommends among other things, that government should
embark on massive urban renewal of the study area so as to provide them with basic facilities, utilities and
infrastructure.