EVALUATING HOUSING QUALITY AND LIVEABILITY IN JOS NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA: IMPLICATIONS FOR HEALTH AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

This study examines Housing Quality and Liveability in Jos North Local Government Area: implications for health and urban development. First, it explores the concept of liveability and housing quality, as well as liveability in Nigerian urban environments; secondly, it explores liveability vis-à-vis health; and finally, it analyses its implications for health and urban development. A quantitative approach was employed, and primary data focusing particularly on two districts, Utan Village and ECWA Staff Neighbourhood, were employed, and data were collected by administering questionnaires to selected households. The survey covered perception of safety, distance to health facilities, satisfaction with health services, health issues, and implications for urban development. Key outcomes show variations in housing quality and its impact on health, such as respiratory and water-borne diseases, amongst others. Key outcomes reflect variations in the quality of housing and liveability of the people living in both neighbourhoods vis-à-vis implications for health and urban development. The study accentuates the need for sustainable housing guidelines, infrastructure development, and equitable urban planning to deal with these issues and enhance the standard of living in Jos North LGA. The study recommends promoting quality housing, improving infrastructure, supporting inclusive urban policies, and expanding healthcare access in underserved areas, among others.