Assessment and Analysis of Urban Sprawl and Squatter Settlements in Calabar Metropolis

Housing has since the dawn of urbanization been a major concern of individuals, groups and governments. The rapid population growth and uncontrolled urbanization are among the causes of the twin concepts of urban sprawl and squatter settlements in most urban centres including Calabar. Urban sprawl is seen as the spreading of cities towards the periphery to accommodate their growing population. Squatter settlements are described as residential areas developed without legal claim to the land or permission from the government, lacking infrastructural facilities such as water, electricity, waste disposal facilities, toilet and social services. They constitute substandard housing which are considered dangerous to health of individuals and a shame to human dignity. The aim of the study is to assess the rate of urban sprawl and squatter development in Calabar metropolis. The specific objective is to assess the socio-economic life of squatter settlers and to determine the causes and consequences of urban sprawl and squatter settlements in Calabar metropolis. Three squatter communities were identified to include Bakoko, Nyagasang and Atimbo. Each community represented a stratum from where 40 respondents were selected. A total of 120 copies of questionnaire were administered to respondents through systematic random sampling technique. Oral interview and direct observation techniques were employed. Secondary data were also obtained. The study reveals the causes of urban sprawl and squatter settlements and their effects. It highlighted the socio-economic characteristics of the three squatter settlements and made recommendations as a means to improve the socio-economic life and environmental quality of the inhabitants.