Green Zone Compliance for Promoting Community Health and Wellbeing: The Case of Lokoja, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58757/jscbe.04.01.01Keywords:
Green Zone, Compliance, Health & Wellbeing, Urban Design, Lokoja, Nigeria.Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to examine the extent of regulatory compliance regarding green zones in urban centers within a postcolonial context in promoting health and well-being in Lokoja metropolis and other developing countries while targeting all stakeholders and users. This study employs proportional random sampling to collect data by administering 140 structured questionnaires, yielding a valid response rate of 120 (72%). Additionally, physical observations of green zone areas were conducted for assessment, along with a review of published literature. SPSS was utilized for the descriptive and inferential analysis of the data, while thematic analysis was used for data collected through physical observations. The findings indicate that the lack of stronger regulatory control in postcolonial urban centers has led to the conversion of green-zone areas for alternative uses. This research was conducted in Lokoja municipality, one of the first administrative seats of the colonial governor-general. But the findings can be applied to similar cities and developing countries with post-colonial compliance regulatory issues. This study suggests that urban development control should establish stronger regulatory frameworks with penalties for non-compliance to preserve the original purpose of green zone areas, established during the colonial period. Moreover, the findings emphasize the necessity for robust legislation for urban control officials, building developers, and those involved in construction and city planning in developing countries, focusing on sustainable stakeholder engagement to ensure adequate compliance with green zone regulations.
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