WATER, SANITATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE PRACTICES AMONG

RESIDENTS OF LUGBE COMMUNITY FCT, ABUJA

1.0 Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION OF STUDY

1.1 BACKGROUND

Access to clean water, proper sanitation, and adequate hygiene (WASH)

services is vital for public health, environmental sustainability, and
socioeconomic growth. Worldwide, waterborne diseases remain a leading
cause of death, especially in developing nations. In Nigeria, the lack of
improved water and sanitation facilities leads to high rates of illness and
death, with over 70,000 children dying each year from diarrheal diseases
due to unsafe water and poor sanitation (UNICEF; 2023). Despite
numerous national and international efforts, many communities continue
to face severe challenges in securing safe water and proper hygiene
practices.

Lugbe, a rapidly growing community in Abuja’s Federal Capital Territory,

illustrates these challenges. Initially a semi-urban area, Lugbe has seen
rapid population growth due to its proximity to the city center and rising
housing demand. However, infrastructure development has not kept up
with this growth, leading to significant gaps in water access, sanitation
facilities, and waste management. Many residents depend on boreholes,
wells, and private water vendors for their daily water needs, but these
sources are often unreliable and contaminated due to poor storage and
handling practices (Dataphyte; 2022) . The limited availability of clean
water forces some households to use unprotected water sources,
increasing their risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and
hepatitis A.

Sanitation is a major concern in Lugbe, where inadequate toilet facilities

have led to widespread practices like open defecation and improper waste
disposal. Reports indicate that Nigeria has one of the highest rates of
open defecation, a practice that significantly contributes to environmental
pollution and the spread of infectious diseases [1]. The situation in Lugbe
mirrors this national issue, with many residents lacking access to
functional sewage systems or modern sanitation facilities. Additionally,
waste management in the community is poor, marked by indiscriminate
dumping of refuse in drainage systems and open spaces, leading to
blocked water channels and increased flooding risks during the rainy
season.

Beyond the health impacts, inadequate water and sanitation services also
affect economic productivity and overall quality of life. Women and
children, in particular, suffer the most from poor WASH infrastructure, as
they often spend hours fetching water or dealing with sanitation-related
health issues. Schools and healthcare facilities in Lugbe are also affected,
with many lacking reliable water supply and proper waste disposal
systems, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks and reducing overall
public well-being.

Given these challenges, this study aims to assess the water, sanitation,
and hygiene practices among residents of Lugbe, identify key barriers to
improved WASH conditions, and propose actionable recommendations for
addressing these issues. By evaluating current practices, infrastructural
limitations, and public health implications, this research seeks to provide
valuable insights for policymakers, health authorities, and development
organizations working to implement sustainable solutions. Improving
WASH services in Lugbe is essential for enhancing public health
outcomes, reducing disease prevalence, and fostering a cleaner and
healthier environment for all residents.

References

1.UNICEF Nigeria. Water, Sanitation and Hygiene [Internet]. New York:

UNICEF; 2023 [cited 2025 Jan 29]. Available from:
https://www.unicef.org/nigeria/water-sanitation-and-hygiene

2.Dataphyte. Delayed Abuja project leaves 3.8m residents struggling for

clean water [Internet]. Abuja: Dataphyte; 2022 [cited 2025 Jan 29].
Available from:
https://dataphyte.com/latest-reports/development/thirsting-for-hope-the-
delayed-abuja-greater-water-supply-project-leaves-1-5-million-residents-
struggling-for-clean-water/

1.2 JUSTIFICATION OF STUDY

Water, sanitation, and hygiene are fundamental elements of public health,
with significant implications for community well-being. In rapidly growing
urban areas, such as Lugbe in Abuja, the demand for these essential
services is increasing, but infrastructure has struggled to keep up. As a
result, residents often face challenges in accessing clean water,
maintaining proper sanitation, and ensuring adequate hygiene practices.
This study aims to address these concerns by investigating the current
state of water, sanitation, and hygiene in Lugbe, identifying key
challenges, and providing actionable recommendations for improvement.
By understanding the existing gaps and their impacts on health and the
environment, the study will contribute to better public health outcomes
and support sustainable urban development in the area.

This study is justified for the following reasons:

1. Public Health Concerns: Poor water quality, inadequate sanitation, and

poor hygiene practices contribute to waterborne diseases such as
cholera, dysentery, and typhoid. Understanding current practices in
Lugbe will help identify health risks and suggest improvements.

2. SDG Alignment: The study works to align local efforts with national and
global WASH initiatives such as SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation)
and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by assessing access
to safe water and sanitation and suggesting improvements for better
environmental hygiene.

3. Policy Formulation and Community Awareness: The study will provide

data to guide policies on improving water and sanitation infrastructure
and raise awareness among residents about better hygiene practices.

4. Environmental Impact: Inadequate waste management contributes to

pollution and flooding. The study will assess these environmental
impacts and recommend sustainable solutions.

5. Preventive Healthcare Cost Reduction: Improved water, sanitation, and

hygiene practices reduce healthcare costs by preventing diseases. The
study will highlight the economic benefits of WASH interventions.
Additionally, this study will provide important information that can help
government officials and public health officials to develop evidence-based
interventions aimed at improving water supply, sanitation infrastructure,
and hygiene education.

By investigating the current state of water, sanitation, and hygiene in

Lugbe, the study will offer insights that can drive improvements,
benefiting residents of Zone 6 of Lugbe community and the Lugbe
community as one.

Ultimately, the findings will contribute to enhancing community health,

reducing disease burden, and promoting a cleaner and healthier
environment for residents of Lugbe.

1.3 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene is critical for public health.
However, in communities like Lugbe, inadequate infrastructure has led to
various health and environmental issues. With rapid urbanization, the
demand for clean water and sanitation has increased, but infrastructure
has not kept pace.

Many residents rely on untreated water from boreholes, wells, and

vendors which may expose them to waterborne diseases such as cholera,
diarrhea, and typhoid. Poor sanitation practices, including open defecation
and improper waste disposal, further spread infections. Limited access to
toilets and inefficient drainage systems worsens these problems,
especially during the rainy season when flooding exacerbates
contamination.

The environmental impact of poor sanitation includes waste

accumulation, clogged drains, and pollution of water sources, threatening
both human health and the ecosystem. Despite government efforts, many
residents still lack adequate services, pointing to a gap between policy
and implementation.

Without adequate data and targeted interventions, these challenges will

continue to threaten public health and socio-economic well-being in the
Lugbe community. Therefore, a comprehensive study is necessary to
assess the extent of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) issues,
identify gaps in infrastructure and practices, and suggest long term
solution solutions.

This study aims to examine the water, sanitation, and hygiene practices
in Zone 6 Lugbe, identify key challenges, and provide insights for
interventions to improve access to clean water, sanitation, and
environmental hygiene.

1.4 OBJECTIVES

1. To assess the current state of water supply and accessibility among

residents of Lugbe Community, Zone 6, FCT Abuja, including the
sources of water, treatment methods, and storage practices.

2. To evaluate the sanitation facilities and practices among residents of

Lugbe Community, Zone 6, including the types of toilets, waste
disposal methods, and hygiene practices related to sanitation.

3. To examine the environmental hygiene practices among residents of

Lugbe Community, Zone 6, including waste management, drainage,
and vector control measures.

4. To identify the factors influencing water, sanitation, and environmental

hygiene practices among residents of Lugbe Community, Zone 6,
including socio-demographic factors, knowledge, attitudes, and
behaviors.

5. To assess the awareness and knowledge of residents of Lugbe

Community, Zone 6, regarding the importance of proper water,
sanitation, and environmental hygiene practices in preventing diseases
and promoting public health.
 6. To identify the gaps and challenges in the provision of water,
sanitation, and environmental hygiene services in Lugbe Community,
Zone 6, and propose recommendations for improvement.

1.5 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What are the current WASH practices among residents of Lugbe

Community?

2. What factors influence residents’ adoption of proper WASH practices?

3. How do social norms influence their health practices?

4. How does their knowledge about health risks associated with

environmental sanitation affect their WASH practices?

5. What role does easy accessibility to healthcare facilities play in their

health practices?

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY ON THE ENVIRONMENT SANITATION OF

THE LUGBE COMMUNITY

1. Public Health Improvement – Proper sanitation reduces the

spread of diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and malaria, which are common
in areas with poor waste management.

2. Waste Management Awareness – Educating residents on proper

waste disposal and recycling helps prevent pollution, open dumping, and
blocked drainage systems.

3. Flood Prevention – Lugbe, like many parts of Abuja, experiences

flooding due to poor drainage. Studying sanitation can help develop
strategies to prevent blockages from waste.

4. Water Quality Protection – Contaminated water sources can pose

health risks. Research on sanitation can promote safer water usage and
better sewage disposal.
 5. Environmental Sustainability – Promoting proper sanitation
practices helps preserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and maintain a
cleaner community for future generations.

6. Economic Benefits – A cleaner environment attracts businesses,

increases property values, and reduces healthcare costs linked to sanitation-
related illnesses.

7. Community Engagement – Raising awareness through studies

and campaigns can encourage residents to take responsibility for keeping
their surroundings clean.

8. Government Policy and Planning – Findings from sanitation

studies can help authorities design better waste management policies and
allocate resources effectively for sanitation projects.

1.7 SCOPE OF STUDY

This study focuses on assessing water supply, sanitation practices, and

environmental hygiene among residents of Zone 6 Lugbe, Abuja. It aims
to examine the sources of water available to the community, the quality
and safety of water used for domestic and commercial purposes, and the
challenges associated with water accessibility and reliability. The study
will also evaluate the adequacy of sanitation facilities, including the
availability and condition of toilets, methods of human waste disposal,
and general hygiene practices among residents which has a estimated
population of 3000 residents and also in settlements . Lugbe a residential
district and town in Abuja covers approximately 50 kilometers square and
main Languages spoken consists mainly of Gbagyi, Egbira, Hausa, Yoruba
and Igbo. Lugbe zone 6 axis being a diverse urban settlement, has a mix
of both Christians and Muslims as well as some adherents of traditional
African religion.

Furthermore, the study will explore environmental hygiene in Zone 6

Lugbe by assessing waste management systems, drainage infrastructure,
and the impact of poor sanitation on public health and the environment. It
will examine how factors such as population growth, urbanization, and
government policies influence water supply, sanitation, and hygiene
conditions in the area. Additionally, the study will investigate the level of
awareness and compliance with hygiene-related best practices, including
handwashing, waste disposal habits, and the use of sanitation facilities.

The research will focus on households, business owners, and other key
stakeholders involved in water and sanitation services in Zone 6 Lugbe.
Data will be collected through questionnaires , interviews, and field
observations to provide a comprehensive understanding of the WASH
(Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) situation in the community.

The study is geographically limited to Zone 6 Lugbe and does not cover
other areas in Abuja. It will primarily analyze the current conditions,
challenges, and potential solutions to improve water and sanitation
access in the community. The findings will contribute to policy
recommendations, community interventions, and awareness campaigns
aimed at improving hygiene, reducing disease prevalence, and promoting
environmental sustainability in Zone 6 Lugbe.

1.8 CONCEPTUAL DEFINITION OF TERMINOLOGIES:

 COMMUNITY: A group of people living in the same place. You can

define communities at different geographic scales: neighborhood,
city, county, province, state, nation, or even internationally

 DISINFECTION: The inactivation of pathogenic organisms using

chemicals, radiation, heat or physical separation processes (e.g.
Membranes). (WHO 2006).

 EXCRETA: Basically, feces and urine. (WHO 2006).

 HYGIENE: In the SDG definition, hygiene is subsumed under

sanitation with a dedicated indicator referring to use / availability of
a handwashing facility on premises with soap and water. Hygiene,
however, includes a wider set of behaviors and measures that are
able to reduce the burden of infectious diseases at home and in the
community. It includes e.g. hand hygiene, personal hygiene, safe
excreta disposal, ensuring safe water at the point-of-use, menstrual
hygiene, general hygiene (laundry, surfaces, baths, sinks), food
 hygiene (cooking, storing, preventing cross-contamination), animal
excreta management and solid waste management.

 ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE: Refers to the practice of maintaining

cleanliness and sanitary conditions in the environment to prevent
the spread of disease, protect public health, and enhance quality of
life. It includes activities like waste management, pollution control,
and pest control.

 SANITATION: The means of collecting and disposing of excreta and

community liquid waste in a hygienic way so as not to endanger the
health of individuals or the community as a whole. (Franceys,
Pickford and Reed 1992).

 SEWAGE: Mixture of human excreta and water used to flush the

excreta from the toilet and through the pipes; may also contain
water used for domestic purposes. (WHO 2006).

 WASH: Abbreviation for water, sanitation and hygiene; generally

used to mean water supply, provision of latrines and facilities for
handwashing. (Furniss, Aboma and Shiferaw 2018).

 WASH systems: All the behaviors, policies, processes, resources,

interactions and institutions necessary for delivery of inclusive,
lasting, universal access to WASH. (Source: Agenda for Change
2021).

 WASTE WATER: Liquid waste discharged from homes, commercial

premises and similar sources to individual disposal systems or to
municipal sewer pipes, and which contains mainly human excreta
and used water. When produced mainly by household and
commercial activities, it is called domestic or municipal wastewater
or domestic sewage. (WHO 2006).

 WASTE SEGREGATION: Waste segregation involves sorting waste

into categories, such as organic, inorganic, and hazardous
materials, to ensure proper treatment and disposal (CDC, 2020).
  WASTE STORAGE: Waste storage in designated bins or containers
helps prevent littering and avoids attracting pests that could spread
diseases (CDC, 2020).

 WASTE COLLECTION: Regular waste collection services, such as

door-to-door collection, community bins, or transfer stations, are
vital for maintaining clean environments and ensuring safe waste
disposal (CDC, 2020).

 WATER SCARCITY: Water scarcity exists where the demand for water
exceeds supply and where available water resources are
approaching or have exceeded sustainable limits. Water scarcity
can either be physical or economic.

 WATER POINT: This is a generic term used to describe any point of

access to water for domestic uses. This includes a household
connection, stand-pipe, well, borehole, spring, rainwater harvesting
unit, water kiosk or other point of transaction with a water vendor.
(UNW-DPAC 2011).

REFERENCES:

1. Furniss, Pam, Girma Aboma and Bethel Shiferaw. Count me in!

Inclusive WASH in Ethiopia. The Open University, 2018.
https://www.open.edu/openlearncreate/mod/glossary/view. Php?
id=140950&mode=letter&hook=ALL&sortkey&sortorder=asc&fullsear
ch=0&page=-1.

2. WHO Guidelines for the Safe Use of Wastewater, Excreta and

Greywater. 4: Excreta and Greywater Use in Agriculture. Geneva: World
Health Organization, 2006.
https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9241546859.

3. UNICEF. Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) terminology guide

[online]. 2024:1-22 [accessed 29 January]. Available from:
https://knowledge.unicef.org/resource/water-sanitation-and-hygiene-
terminology-guideunicef.