AN ASSESSMENT OF THE FACTORS AFFECTING HOUSING DELIVERY IN BAUCHI METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT This study assesses the factors affecting housing delivery in Bauchi Metropolis, with the aim of identifying the key challenges hindering adequate housing provision and exploring the roles of various stakeholders. Rapid urbanization and population growth in Bauchi Metropolis have resulted in a significant housing deficit, characterized by an insufficient supply of affordable housing and a proliferation of informal settlements and slums. The research utilized a descriptive design and collected data from a target population of 256 professionals from government ministries (Land, Works, Housing, and Environment) in Bauchi. A sample size of 148 was derived using the Krejcie and Morgan table, with 139 questionnaires successfully returned and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that the housing delivery process is significantly constrained by economic factors, including the high cost and unpredictable fluctuation in the prices of building materials, the difficulty in accessing affordable housing loans or mortgages for individuals, and high-interest rates on housing loans. Government policies and regulations also pose significant institutional challenges, with the Land Use Act of 1978 and national housing policies contributing to increased costs and unpredictability, and building regulations making housing delivery difficult. Private developers were acknowledged for their positive roles in providing land development, infrastructure, and generating employment. The key socio-economic factors influencing demand include the desire for an affordable cost of living, increases in income levels, and population growth and urbanization. The study concludes that the housing deficit in Bauchi Metropolis persists due to a combination of high material costs, financial barriers, and ineffective policy implementation. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the government introduce subsidies or tax reliefs on building materials, simplify the land acquisition process, strengthen housing finance options (especially accessible mortgage schemes), and prioritize Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for affordable housing project.