The Effects of Household Sizes on the Living Standard in Uyo Municipality, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria sector policies on birth control and child spacing are all aimed at household size reduction and enhanced better standard of living. This is because increased household sizes in most cases progressively increases poverty, thus lowering the household living standard. This study examines the effect of household size, among other correlates, on the standard of living of the sampled respondents in Uyo, metropolis using income and basic needs approach. The results revealed an inverse relationship between household sizes and monthly income per capita, housing density, availability of medical facilities as well as for pipe borne water. Larger household sizes were found to live in rented apartment within densely populated area and the housing type was composite. Majority of the categorized household sizes lived in concrete wall and zinc roof type of building and were all connected to the national grid for power supply. However, irrespective of household sizes, respondents complained of irregular electric power supply in the study area. The study concluded that increase household size had negative effect on the living conditions of the respondents. It recommended for an “all inclusive” vigorous house hold size reduction policy for the country and an aggressive cultural campaign with an effective enforcement strategy.