ASSESSMENT OF DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLY: A CASE STUDY OF DEI-DEI AND DAKWA AREAS OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, ABUJA, NIGERIA

Abstract

Water is a basic human need; portable water supply is an issue of concern in both planned and areas in Nigeria. This study conducts an assessment of domestic water supply and the problems associated with it in order to reduce the immediate impact on health, economic productivity, the environment and physical domestic activities using data collection tools and methods such as Reconnaissance Survey, Organisational survey (FCT water board), Physical Observation and Questionnaire Administration (from 332 respondents to be precise). Residents from Deidei and Dakwa communities formed the 2 strata from which respondents were randomly selected. The result of the study shows that Dei-dei and Dakwa has not been captured in the water board master plan which has led residents to explore other water sources like wells, boreholes and water vendors. This is being complimented by donations from well-meaning politicians and also the Turkish government. These sources do not match the demand and the growing population of the areas and a vast majority of the water facilities are not in the best possible shape to supply portable water. Water is sold for as high as ₦1000 for 200 litres during dry season and it comes down to about ₦240 at the peak of rainy season since residents have the alternative of harvesting rain water. Recommendations were made to improve the water supply in the area some of these are: that the government through its water board (FCT chapter) should develop a new master plan that will expand their services and facilities to satellite towns around the FCT including Dei-dei and Dakwa to ensure proper management of water quality this will ensure proper Risk-assessment studies of the impact of water quality on human health is before it is supplied. Also, the condition of the existing facilities should be improved and should also be centrally placed so as to meet the need for the range of coverage. Again, private sector participation in water supply should be encouraged and this is to be complimented by supervision from relevant agencies and the government.