Social and Health Inequality in Nigeria: A Survey of Ajegunle Slum Dwellers of Lagos State

Abstract

Social disadvantage and inequalities in health outcomes are critically and significantly related in many ways. The study uses the Ajegunle Area of Lagos in Lagos State, Nigeria as the study area. The concept of slums and social and health inequality has been explored greatly, itemizing the key factors that affect health and the impact on the environment, health, and the economy. The study further revealed the level of inequality access to Health facilities and service delivery suffered by Slum dwellers. Also, it exposed the high level of decay of Social Amenities in Slum Settlements occasioned by age-long neglect by the government. The study's findings will serve as valuable material for future research on slum settlements and their impact on health outcomes, potentially prompting government intervention. This intervention could include building better road networks, affordable housing, functional health centers, and providing essential services like electricity, waste disposal, clean water, and employment opportunities. The study also advocates for eliminating socio-economic and health inequalities in Nigeria through greater government commitment to improving people's lives in all regions of the country.