Abstract

The study examined the socio-economic characteristics of residents in the different residential zones of Ilorin, identified the existing environmental sanitation facilities, and investigated residents’ sanitation practices. This was with a view to enhancing people’s environmental sanitation practice. Data were collected from primary and secondary sources. A total of 151 questionnaires were administered. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The mean ages were 46.9, 42.4 and 40.9 years in the core, transition, and suburban areas, respectively. The respective mean incomes in the core, transition and suburban areas were N34,211.00, N34,683.00 and N41,217.00. The maximum income in the core area was N95,000.00. The most noticeable type of toilet was the flush toilet (78.4%). Residents’ practice of cleaning toilets on a weekly basis was 27.8%, 42.1% and 55.0% in the core, transition and suburban areas, respectively. The most adopted method for storing waste was buckets with covers, which represented 28.9%. Residents waste disposal practices that are environmentally unfriendly were 70.4%. In the study area, residents were not satisfied with the provision of drainage and water supplies. The study concluded that environmental sanitation practices at the various residential zones vary, which calls for different approaches from both residents and government.

Keywords: Water, Environmental sanitation, Practices, Hygiene, Ilorin, Nigeria