Paper Details

This study investigated household water supply, sanitation, and hygiene practices in Agoi, Yakurr Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria. A survey design was used to gather data on drinking water sources, physicochemical and bacteriological parameters, open defecation status, toilet facilities, and the influence of household socioeconomic activities on hygiene practices. A well-structured questionnaire was administered to 396 households in Agoi Ekpo and Agoi-Ibami, and laboratory analysis was conducted to assess water quality. The study found that eleven sources of drinking water were found in the two communities, including boreholes, lakes, streams, and rainwater. Surface water was used more frequently than groundwater for drinking and other uses, and colonies had high coliform bacterial concentrations. A higher percentage of households (76.7%) defecate on pit latrines and wooden/block toilets, while farms did not have access to toilets. The study recommends government and private investment in water supply, boiling water, construction of protected pit latrines, and provision of WASH facilities by household heads and government. KEY WORDS: WASH, Sanitation, Hygiene, Remote, Yakurr.