Residential satisfaction within selected public housing estates in Lokoja Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study seeks to address the growing body of research on residential satisfaction in emerging cities like Lokoja in Kogi State, Nigeria. While numerous studies have examined the factors that influence residents' satisfaction with their location and housing, there is a dearth of knowledge in this area for emerging cities. The aim of this study is to identify the predictors of residential satisfaction in public housing in Lokoja and to explore the role of user input in public housing delivery in Nigeria. The study collected data from 215 residents living in three housing estates in Lokoja and analysed the data using descriptive analysis, factor analysis, and categorical regression analysis. The results of the regression analysis showed that marital status, monthly income, and the number of bedrooms were significant predictors of residential satisfaction in public houses in Lokoja. Additionally, the study identified other predictors of residential satisfaction in public houses based on sub-component attributes, such as housing management, housing neighbourhood, and housing socioeconomic attributes. These factors also showed significant loading in the factor analysis and produced good beta and p-values. Overall, the regression model accounted for approximately 92% of the variance in residential satisfaction in the surveyed houses in Lokoja. The study recommends that the government revise its policies on public housing estates to prioritize the involvement of residents at every stage of the housing process. This would help to improve satisfaction levels across all housing sub-components. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the predictors of residential satisfaction in an emerging city in Nigeria and underscores the importance of user input in public housing delivery. The findings of this study could inform policies to improve public housing delivery and enhance residents' satisfaction in emerging cities across Nigeria.