BEHAVIOURAL ADHERENCE TO SANITATION AND WATER SAFETY OF HOUSEHOLDS IN ADO-EKITI, EKITI STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to assess the physical, chemical and microbial qualities of commonly used water sources in Ado-Ekiti. This study adopted a community-based cross-sectional survey design and was conducted between August 10 and August 30, 2025, in Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State. The sample size was determined using the single population proportion formula. Thus, a total of 418 households were selected to participate in the study. A multi-stage sampling technique was used. First, five wards were randomly selected out of the thirteen in Ado-Ekiti. Then, systematic random sampling was applied to select households within each ward using household listings provided by community leaders and local health officials. Eligible participants included household heads or any adult aged 18 years and above who had resided in the selected household for at least six months. Data were collected through a researcher-administered structured questionnaire entitled: Sanitation and Water Safety Questionnaire (SWSQ). The SWSQ was developed in English and translated into Yoruba for respondents with limited English proficiency. The questionnaire covered various domains, including socio-demographic characteristics such as age, sex, education, and income; household sanitation practices related to the type, use, and maintenance of sanitation facilities; water source usage regarding types, accessibility, and reliability; water handling behaviours encompassing collection, transportation, and treatment practices; water storage practices focusing on the type of containers, frequency of cleaning, and covering status; and factors influencing behaviour, including knowledge, attitude, and distance to the water source. To facilitate data collection, trained enumerators were recruited and supervised by field coordinators, with a two-day training conducted to ensure uniform understanding of the survey tool and procedures. Data quality was further enhanced through daily reviews of completed questionnaires, spot-checks, and field supervision. The survey tool was pre-tested in a non-selected ward (Odo-Ado) involving 20 households to assess clarity, language appropriateness, and reliability. Necessary adjustments were made based on feedback. Reliability testing yielded a Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.84, indicating acceptable internal consistency. Data were coded and entered into Epi Info version 7 and later exported to SPSS version 25 for statistical analysis. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and means were used to summarize the data. Bivariate analysis using binary logistic regression was conducted to assess the association between independent variables and water handling practices. Variables with p < 0.25 in the bivariate analysis were included in the multivariable logistic regression model to control for confounding. A p-value < 0.05 at 95% confidence interval (CI) was considered statistically significant. Adjusted Odds Ratios (AORs) were calculated to determine the strength and direction of associations. Findings indicated that that most households in Ado-Ekiti utilize improved sanitation facilities, primarily flush toilets. However, significant challenges persist, including the use of unimproved toilets and inadequate maintenance practices. Among others, it was recommended that local government authorities should enhance education and awareness by implementing community-based educational programs to raise awareness about proper sanitation and water treatment practices, particularly targeting households with lower educational attainment.