SANITATION AND HYGIENE PRACTICES AND THEIR IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH IN CHANCHAGA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, NIGER STATE

ABSTRACT This research investigates the sanitation and hygiene practices in Chanchaga Local Government Area (LGA) of Minna, Niger State, Nigeria, and their impact on public health. Sanitation and hygiene are critical determinants of health, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure contribute to a wide range of preventable diseases. The study explores how the sanitation and hygiene practices in this region influence the prevalence of waterborne diseases, as well as the general health status of the population. Through the lens of local households, the research aims to assess the practices, knowledge, and attitudes towards sanitation, and the barriers that limit optimal hygiene behaviors. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted for this study, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Data were gathered using structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions from 200 households selected through a stratified random sampling technique. The sampling approach ensured the inclusion of subgroups based on income levels, gender, age, and occupation, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the variations in sanitation and hygiene practices across different demographic groups. The research revealed that although sanitation practices were generally poor in the area, efforts to improve hygiene were hindered by several factors, including a lack of public awareness, inadequate waste disposal systems, and limited access to clean water. Additionally, the study found a strong correlation between poor sanitation and the prevalence of waterborne diseases, such as cholera, diarrhea, and typhoid, which are prevalent in the region. Respondents with lower income levels were disproportionately affected by poor sanitation and hygiene conditions, while middle- and high-income households exhibited better practices and fewer health issues. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve sanitation infrastructure, raise public awareness about the importance of hygiene, and implement policies aimed at reducing the public health burden caused by sanitation-related diseases. The research also recommends the establishment of community-based sanitation programs and partnerships between local governments, non-governmental organizations, and international health agencies to promote sustainable sanitation practices in Chanchaga LGA.This study contributes to the growing body of literature on sanitation and public health in Nigeria and provides critical insights for policymakers and public health professionals seeking to address sanitation challenges in similar communities across the country. By addressing the root causes of sanitation-related health issues, this research aims to help reduce the burden of waterborne diseases and enhance the overall well-being of communities in Chanchaga Local Government Area.