Post Disaster Housing Reconstruction (PDHR) in Ibaji and Lokoja, Kogi State-Nigeria

Abstract

The post-disaster housing reconstruction is a process distinct from the construction of housing when situations are normal, because reactive measures are put in place after disasters have occurred. It has been established that most of the time, emergency relief efforts are usually seen as being successful but the same cannot be said of post disaster housing reconstruction projects because they often fail to meet the set objectives. Hence, the study assessed post disaster housing reconstruction (PDHR) in Ibaji and Lokoja Local Government Areas of Kogi State, Nigeria. This was done through the self-administration of structured questionnaires to 56 professionals directly or indirectly involved on the reconstruction projects. Findings indicated that market and environment related factors have the most significant effects on resources availability during post disaster housing reconstruction. While the main challenges confronting post disaster housing reconstruction are inconsistencies in post disaster housing policy as well as insufficient capacity of the construction industry in the study area. However, PDHR has not achieved the desired objectives owing to challenges stymieing its effective implementation. Home owner-driven model therefore should be adopted for PDHR. The study is significant in that the PDHR challenges identified when measures are put in place to manage them, all the stakeholder beginning with victims will have a sustainable housing, government agencies will be up to date with robust approach to solving reconstruction issues and donors will have value for their money.