Assessment of Inclusive Design Elements and Users' Perception of Accessibility in Local Government Secretariat Buildings in Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Inclusive design is fundamental to ensuring equitable access to public buildings by accommodating users with diverse physical abilities and functional needs. However, many local government secretariat buildings in Nigeria continue to exhibit accessibility deficiencies that limit effective service delivery and user satisfaction. This study assessed the availability of inclusive design elements and examined users' perceptions of accessibility in selected local government secretariat buildings in Kwara State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional research design employing a mixed-method approach was adopted. Eight secretariat buildings were selected using multistage sampling, while 373 questionnaires were administered to staff members, of which 356 were valid for analysis, representing a 95.4% response rate. Field observations complemented the questionnaire survey, and data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, Mean Weighted Values (MWV), and Aggregate Weighted Values (AWV). The findings revealed considerable variation in the implementation of inclusive design elements across the selected secretariats. Oke-Ero (AWV = 4.20) and Kaiama (AWV = 3.92) demonstrated the highest accessibility performance, whereas Offa (AWV = 2.05), Asa (AWV = 2.38), and Moro (AWV = 2.41) recorded poor accessibility levels. Signage clarity and circulation spaces consistently achieved higher accessibility ratings, while entrance ramps and accessible toilet facilities emerged as the weakest inclusive design elements across most buildings. The study concludes that the inconsistent provision of inclusive design features limits equitable access to local government secretariat buildings in Kwara State. It recommends systematic retrofitting of existing facilities, stricter enforcement of accessibility standards, and the integration of inclusive design principles into the planning and development of future public administrative buildings.