Influence of Perception on the Use of Public Parks for Recreation in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria

摘要

Preliminary empirical assessment of parks in Makurdi indicates that park use is declining. This decline manifests in abandonment of existing parks which has led to physical deterioration of facilities in parks, control of public parks by private interests and transformation of park space into criminal hideouts. Literature suggests that use of space is influenced by many factors one of which is perception. This study sets out to investigate public perception of parks in Makurdi. The population of Makurdi was determined by projecting the population data for Makurdi from 2006 to 2016.The Taro Yamane formula was used to determine a sample size of 400 from the population figure. Neighbourhoods surrounding parks such as Lobi quarters, Old G.R.A, Kwararafa quarters, Ankpa quarters, Highlevel, Low level, Wurukum and Nyiman were adopted as units for data collection. Maps of each neighborhood were digitized and individual houses numbered on the map. A table of random numbers was then applied to determine the number of houses from which information was sought. Perceptual and demographic information was sourced through questionnaire administration and findings were analyzed using SPSS software and generated in percentages to present findings. Findings showed parks were perceived as a means of recreation and an avenue to strengthen social ties however, Insecurity, and poor park facilities were the major factors limiting people from optimal use of these parks. It is recommended that more attention be focused on the parks in terms of their management, nature and quality of services provided, improving on the physical structures and enhancing the security and overall feasibility.