The indiscriminate Commercial activities in low Density Residential Area: A Case Study of Minna, Niger state.

Abstract

Low density residential areas provide decent accommodations for middle and high income earners. These areas usually have simple well organised layouts served with basic physical; and social infrastructure. Commercial activities are largely restricted to neighborhoods’ shopping centre. In recent times however, areas designated as such in Minna have come to be dotted with commercial activities some contained in frontal shops attached to the compound and others in makeshift structures such as containers, wooden sheds, umbrella stands, zinc shed, and sometimes in the plain open air. This paper examines the impact of these activities on both the environment and also on the physical and mental health of the residents. Structured questionnaires were administered and personal observation made. The findings show that the shops primarily generate income not only for the owners but also the landlords where he is the owner of the building or structure. Other reason for these businesses is security from daytime burglars and leisure activity. It is also clear that quiet numbers of these businesses were not approved by any official body and they do not pay any revenue to the government. It is recommended that public enlightenment on the effects of environmentally degrading activities be intensified. Also preventive measures should need to be taken to enforce development control laws in zones that are already degenerating.