AN ASSESSMENT OF THE LEVEL OF CIVIL SERVANTS ADOPTION OF SELF-HELP APPROACH IN HOUSING DELIVERY IN BENIN CITY

Abstract

This study investigated the adoption of self-help approaches in housing delivery by civil servants in Benin City, Nigeria. The study aimed to assess the extent to which civil servants engage in self-help housing design and construction, and the utilization of skilled labour in the supervision of their projects. A survey design was employed, collecting data from civil servants in three local government areas of Benin City using structured questionnaires. The sample size of 354 respondents was determined using a stratified random sampling technique. Findings revealed that 13.4% of civil servants design their houses themselves, while 62.4% employ architects. In terms of construction, 13.3% of respondents supervise the construction themselves, and 32.5% use direct labour, whereas 64.4% employ professional builders for supervision. The study revealed a complex interplay between self-help and professional involvement in housing design and construction among civil servants in Benin Metropolis.in the light of these findings, the study recommended that governments and relevant authorities should create policies that make professional design and construction services more accessible and affordable for civil servants.