Socio-Cultural Lifestyle of Slum Dwellers – A Limiting Factor to Urban Renewal Efforts in Akure, Nigeria

Abstract

Most indigenous cities of emerging nations in the third world are characterized by large-scale housing and environmental deficiencies. This paper attempts to investigate the limiting role of socio-cultural attributes of slum residents on renewal policies which are implemented to minimize or eradicate such deficiencies. The study was carried out in Akure, in South-Western Nigeria. Using questionnaires, direct observation, housing demographic and facility survey for data collection, it was discovered that residence satisfaction is not to be measured only by the facilities therein or by the quality of the dwelling units. Other imperceptible cultural and social factors play prominent roles, which need be considered while framing policies for city development. However, full participation of slum residents is noted very indispensable for the success of any large scale renewal programme while effective public enlightenment, improved socio- economic base and sanitary education strategies will help in re-orientating the people and equipping them towards healthy and aesthetically decent environment. Keywords: