Socio-Economic Impact of Ward Development Projects on Water Supply Improvement in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria, 2010-2014

Abstract

This study examined the socio-economic impact of Ward Development Projects on water supply improvement in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria, 2010-2014. The research was guided by two principal objectives: to determine the extent to which Ward Development Projects have enhanced potable water supply, and to assess the sustainability of water supply facilities provided through these projects. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and was underpinned by the Community-Driven Development Theory. The study determined a sample size of 400 respondents using the Taro Yamane formula, and selected participants through a multistage sampling procedure across all the eleven wards. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire, while secondary data were sourced from relevant literature, government publications, and project reports. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and simple linear regression at a 5% significance level. The findings indicated that respondents held favourable perceptions regarding both the implementation of Ward Development Projects (mean = 3.749) and improvements in water supply (mean = 3.782). Regression analysis revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between Ward Development Projects and water supply improvement (β = 0.154, p = 0.003), though the model accounted for only 2.4% of the variance in water supply outcomes. The study concluded that Ward Development Projects have contributed positively to water supply improvement in the study area; however, their effectiveness depends on adequate and timely funding, active community participation throughout the project cycle, effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and proper maintenance of water infrastructure. Thus, the study recommended increased government financial commitment, enhanced community involvement in project planning and implementation, and robust monitoring frameworks to ensure project quality, accountability, and the long-term sustainability of water supply interventions in the Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.

Keywords: Ward Development Projects, Water Supply, Socio-economic, Community Development.