An Integrated Socioeconomic and Quality Assessment of Water Security in Chanchaga, Niger State

Abstract

The study investigates urban water security in Chanchaga Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria, focusing on how household socioeconomic factors influence water accessibility and management. Using both laboratory analyses and structured surveys, the research found that water sources in the area exhibit poor quality, with turbidity, sulfate, nitrate, lead, and cadmium levels exceeding WHO and NSDWQ standards, posing health risks. Survey results from 250 respondents showed that most are young (58% under 30 years), male (75.6%), and educated, yet 82% experience limited water access despite 74% depending on boreholes. A regression analysis (R=0.758, R²=0.534) confirmed that demographic variables significantly affect willingness to pay for improved water services. The study concludes that urgent policy action and infrastructure investment are needed to enhance water quality, distribution, and accessibility in Chanchaga and similar urban areas.