ABSTRACT
The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of urbanisation on Ekosodin and its environs, focusing on social structure, cultural heritage, poverty levels, income inequality, environmental conditions and economic opportunities. Four research Questions were raised to guide the study.
Descriptive survey design was adopted for this study. The population size is 7,000, while a sample size of one hundred and thirty-six residents were drawn from Ekosodin community, Ovia North East Local Government, Benin City. The sample was drawn using the proportional sampling technique. A self structured questionnaire was used to collect data for the study. The questionnaire was validated by the researcher’s supervisor and two experts in the department of Health, Safety and Environmental Education. Reliability was established using the split half method and data collected from the study was analyzed using frequency, counts and percentage.
The findings reveal that urbanization has had a low impact on social structure and cultural heritage, as it has not significantly preserved traditional values or cultural sites. However, it has strengthened community engagement and participation in cultural activities. The study also found that urbanization has significantly reduced poverty levels and improved household income, while its effects on environmental conservation remain minimal. The research concludes that achieving sustainable urbanization in Ekosodin requires a balanced approach that integrates economic development with environmental sustainability and cultural preservation. The research recommended that future urban development efforts should focus on balancing economic growth with cultural preservation and environmental sustainability to ensure a more holistic and sustainable urbanization process in Ekosodin.
