An Analysis of Factors Influencing the Residential Choices of Ethnic Groups in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria: A Factor Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/ajiri.v5i3.7976Keywords:
Determinants, Ethnic Groups, Factor Analysis, Residential Choices, Urban PlanningAbstract
This study investigates the factors that influence the residential choices of different ethnic groups in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Ethnic diversity plays a significant role in shaping housing preferences, community cohesion, and access to resources in urban areas. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 367 household respondents across four major ethnic enclaves Igbo, Hausa, Kalabari, and Ikwerre through a multi-stage stratified sampling technique. Factor analysis was employed to identify key determinants, which were organized into social, economic, and environmental dimensions. Findings reveal significant variations in preferences among ethnic groups. The findings reveal that social and familial factors, such as support from relatives (mean = 4.35) and family ties (mean = 4.04), are the most influential determinants of residential choices, reflecting the cultural emphasis on communal networks. Economic considerations, including employment opportunities (mean = 3.72) and land availability (mean = 3.58), also play significant roles. In contrast, physical living conditions and safety factors, such as neighborhood welfare (mean = 2.61), ranked lower in importance. These insights highlight the interconnectedness of cultural, social, and economic factors in shaping ethnic residential patterns. The study concludes that urban development strategies should prioritize family-oriented policies, enhance employment opportunities, and promote intercultural understanding. Recommendations include improving housing standards, ensuring public safety, and upgrading transportation infrastructure to foster inclusive and sustainable neighborhoods. This research contributes to our understanding of ethnic residential preferences and offers valuable policy directions for urban planning in diverse socio-cultural contexts.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ogban, Michael E, Deeyah, Christopher, Akujuru Victor A., Kemiki Olurotimi A.
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