Evaluating the Housing and Living Conditions of Migrants in Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

This study examines the housing and living conditions of migrants in Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria, a rapidly urbanising centre that is facing pressure on its infrastructure due to increasing migration. In comparison, initial concerns highlighted potential challenges, such as overcrowding and poor sanitation; the research aimed to provide empirical data to inform sustainable urban planning. A quantitative survey design was employed to collect data from 399 respondents, comprising both internal and cross-border migrants, using a structured questionnaire. The sample was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula, and a multi-stage sampling technique ensured representativeness. The demographic analysis revealed a migrant population that is predominantly male (55.1%), economically active (45.1% aged 31-45 years), and relatively educated (37.3% with tertiary education). A significant portion (35.1%) was self-employed, indicating reliance on the informal sector. Contrary to the study’s initial premise, the findings on housing and living conditions were largely positive: a vast majority (92.2%) reported living in decent housing with access to basic amenities, and 93.7% perceived their current living conditions as better than before migration. Furthermore, 92.5% of respondents found housing costs in Lafia to be affordable. Despite these positive perceptions, 96.2% acknowledged that poor housing conditions have a negative impact on economic well-being. These results suggest that while migrants in Lafia generally experience satisfactory housing and improved living standards, the underlying awareness of housing’s economic impact remains strong.