Assessment of the Metering and Billing Systems of Water Supply in Some Parts of Osogbo Metropolis, Osun State Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the water metering and billing methods in some parts of Osogbo metropolis of Osun State, Nigeria by evaluating the adequacy, effectiveness and cost implications of the systems. Data was obtained through a questionnaire survey, field observations and oral interviews. A total number of 200 questionnaires were randomly distributed to the households around the metered neighbourhood, 173 responses were retrieved for analysis. It was discovered that the waterworks only have a metering system for 3222 (0.85%) households. It charges a fixed price of ₦2000/month for those without water meters and ₦2700/month for metered households. The percentages of domestic, industrial, religious, governmental and institutional water users were 41.6%, 30.6%, 8.7%, 8.1% and 11.0% respectively and a majority of the water users agreed to be consuming between 75 – 100 litres of water per day. Considering the number of days that households get water, the study found that in a week, 16.8%, 46.8% and 36.4% of the respondents get water for, 1-2, 2-4, and 4-7days respectively. The study revealed that 9.8%, 23.1%, 48.6% and 18.5% of the respondents were 5-20%, 21-40%, 41- 60% and 61-80% satisfied with their billing methods respectively. If water is available all the days of the week, the study found the billing system to be fair. Residents are then advised to subscribe to the metering and billing systems for fair bargaining.