THE ANALYSIS OF WATER SECURITY IN CALABAR SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA CROSS RIVER STATE NIGERIA

Water supply and scarcity are critical challenges affecting households across Calabar South Local Government Area in Cross River State, Nigeria. This study investigates the current state of water supply, the factors contributing to water scarcity, and the implications for household water security in the region. The study employs a descriptive survey design, utilizing structured questionnaires to collect data from 375 households in Calabar South. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency counts and percentages. The findings reveal that the majority of households rely on boreholes, dug wells, and rainwater harvesting for their water supply, while only a small percentage of households receive water from the Cross River State Water Board (CRSWB). A significant proportion of respondents reported inadequacies in water supply, long distances to water sources, and concerns about water quality, highlighting the presence of pollutants and the potential for waterborne diseases. The research also identified various challenges contributing to water scarcity, including poor infrastructure, weak water governance, and the high cost of water in the area. Based on these findings, the study concludes that water insecurity remains a significant issue for households in Calabar South, exacerbated by unreliable water supply systems and inadequate government intervention. To address these issues, the study recommends stronger governance frameworks, expanded water infrastructure, public awareness campaigns on water conservation, and innovative water management solutions. These interventions are critical to ensuring equitable access to safe and reliable water for all residents of Calabar South. This study contributes to the growing body of research on water security in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for sustainable water resource management and multi- stakeholder collaboration to resolve the water supply challenges facing households in Calabar South.