Background of the Study
Urbanization is a key driver of economic development but also presents significant environmental and public health challenges. Rapid population growth in urban areas often leads to inadequate housing, poor sanitation, air pollution, and waste management issues, which negatively impact environmental health (United Nations Human Settlements Programme [UN-Habitat], 2024). In many developing countries, including Nigeria, urban expansion is often unregulated, leading to increased exposure to health risks such as respiratory diseases, waterborne infections, and vector-borne illnesses (World Health Organization [WHO], 2023).
Kwara State, located in north-central Nigeria, has experienced rapid urbanization over the past two decades. The capital city, Ilorin, has seen significant population growth due to rural-urban migration, leading to increased pressure on housing, sanitation, and waste disposal systems (National Population Commission [NPC], 2024). The rise in industrial activities and vehicular emissions has also contributed to poor air quality, increasing cases of respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis (Federal Ministry of Environment [FME], 2023).
Despite various environmental policies, urbanization in Kwara State continues to outpace infrastructure development, resulting in worsening environmental health conditions. This study seeks to examine the impact of urbanization on environmental health in Kwara State, with a focus on sanitation, air pollution, and waste management.
Statement of the Problem
The rapid pace of urbanization in Kwara State has led to environmental degradation and public health challenges. Unplanned urban expansion has resulted in inadequate waste management, poor sanitation, and increased air pollution, posing serious health risks to residents (WHO, 2023). The increasing number of informal settlements lacks proper drainage and sewage systems, contributing to the spread of waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid (NPC, 2024).
Additionally, rising industrial and vehicular emissions have led to deteriorating air quality, exacerbating respiratory conditions, particularly among children and the elderly (FME, 2023). The lack of strict environmental regulations and enforcement mechanisms has further aggravated these problems. Given these concerns, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment of the environmental health challenges associated with urbanization in Kwara State.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on urban centers in Kwara State, particularly Ilorin and surrounding municipalities. It may be limited by challenges in obtaining reliable data on environmental pollution and public health records.
Definitions of Terms
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