BACKGROUND CHARACTERISTICS AND RISK VULNERABILITY AMONG ADOLESCENT GIRLS IN SELECTED URBAN CITIES OF NIGERIA

This study employed a mixed-methods research design to explore the background characteristics and environmental risk vulnerabilities of adolescent girls in selected urban areas of Nigeria, including Keffi, Abuja, and Jos. Using quantitative data collected through structured surveys and questionnaires, the study captured demographic details, environmental risk exposure, and infrastructure access from a sample size of 1,152 respondents, determined through Cochran’s formula for statistical validity. Complementing the quantitative approach, qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with adolescent girls, community leaders, and key stakeholders, offering deeper insights into their lived experiences and coping mechanisms. Various sampling techniques—including stratified random sampling, cluster sampling, systematic sampling, purposive sampling, and snowball sampling—ensured representative participation across diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Data sources included primary data from fieldwork and secondary data from literature, policy documents, and government reports. Field observations, document reviews, and visual documentation using photography and GPS technology further enriched data collection, while reliability and validity of instruments were confirmed through pre-testing and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient assessment. Data analysis combined descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS and R software for quantitative data, and thematic analysis for qualitative data, with triangulation enhancing the study’s comprehensiveness and depth. The findings revealed significant demographic patterns and socio-economic disparities influencing environmental risk exposure among adolescent girls. Mid-adolescents aged 13–15 years constituted the largest age group (47.3%), with educational attainment showing promising trends—61% of respondents were enrolled in secondary school, though 9.1% reported no formal education, highlighting persistent barriers to educational inclusion. Household income disparities were notable, with over half of respondents (50.8%) living in households earning ≤20,000 NGN per month, reflecting widespread poverty. Environmental risks were prevalent across study areas, with poor sanitation facilities (64.5%), waste pollution (71.4%), and inadequate water supply (58.9%) reported as critical issues. Qualitative insights underscored additional challenges, such as poor drainage systems, limited street lighting, and proximity to industrial pollution. Correlation and regression analyses demonstrated the strong influence of socio-economic and educational factors on environmental risk exposure, with household income and education level emerging as significant predictors. These findings call for targeted interventions addressing poverty, educational access, and infrastructure development, alongside collaborative efforts from policymakers, educators, and community leaders to create an enabling environment for adolescent girls in urban Nigeria.