RECREATIONAL BEHAVIOR AND PREFERENCE OF URBAN RESIDENTS IN IKOT EKPENE TOWN, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA
Authors:
Eno Eyak James Aniedi Udo Essien And Ememobong Joseph Effiong
Abstract:
This study examined the recreational behaviour and preference of urban residents in Ikot Ekpene Town as well as the recreational constraints in the area. A cross-sectional survey of 375 randomly selected residents was conducted in the five residential zones that make up the town using questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, frequency count and simple percentages were employed for data analysis. Results showed that respondents had an overwhelming positive disposition towards recreation with a high preference for outdoor recreation particularly “sitting out at open spaces, Parks and Plazas with drinks and photography”. The further finding revealed the top 5 constraints to recreation including insecurity, poor access to recreational facilities, inadequate recreational facility, poor sanitation at recreational centres and high cost of recreational services. Findings re-echo the need to inaugurate community policing in order to strengthen security at recreational centres as well as enhancing access to recreation through citizens empowerment, infrastructure upgrade and expanding facilities for outdoor recreation.