1.1 Introduction
A recreational park is a designated public space designed for leisure, relaxation, sports, and various outdoor activities aimed at enhancing the physical, mental, and social well-being of individuals and communities. The importance of recreational parks in modern urban planning is widely recognized due to their ability to support healthy lifestyles, improve air quality, promote biodiversity, and foster social inclusion (Adeyemi & Ogunleye, 2020). In Nigeria, however, the development and maintenance of such public leisure spaces have often been neglected. Rapid urbanization, poor land-use planning, and limited budgetary allocation to green infrastructure have resulted in a severe shortage of quality recreational parks, especially in urban centers. This has contributed to a rise in sedentary behavior, reduced opportunities for social engagement, and increased environmental stress within urban populations (Olaniyan, 2021).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
The idea of establishing recreational parks dates back centuries, originating from the need to create open, green spaces within human settlements for relaxation, community bonding, and environmental preservation. In traditional African societies, communal spaces such as village squares served similar purposes providing venues for rest, cultural events, and social interactions (Ajayi & Abegunde, 2012). Recreational parks have become essential components of sustainable urban development, providing spaces for relaxation, physical activity, environmental conservation, and social integration. These parks offer communities numerous benefits, including improved mental health, reduction of urban heat, encouragement of physical exercise, and enhancement of community cohesion. According to Oduwaye (2015), recreational parks contribute significantly to the livability of cities by offering green environments that break the monotony of concrete structures and dense urban development (Oduwaye, 2015).
Adeyemo and Adebayo (2017) reported that the provision of recreational facilities is crucial in improving the quality of life, especially in urban areas where stress levels are high, and opportunities for physical activity are limited. In their study on urban open spaces, they highlighted that residents who have access to recreational parks are more likely to engage in outdoor activities, interact with other community members, and develop a stronger sense of belonging. Similarly, Ogundele et al. (2018) asserted that green spaces, particularly recreational parks, are effective tools in mitigating the negative effects of urbanization, such as pollution, congestion, and social disconnection.
On the social front, Uche and Olusola (2020) stated that recreational parks promote social inclusion and foster interactions across different age groups, socio-economic classes, and cultural backgrounds. They affirmed that such spaces are vital in building peaceful and resilient communities. Moreover, Akintoye (2019) contended that parks serve as educational and cultural venues, where environmental awareness and community-driven programs can be facilitated.
In the Nigerian context, the development and maintenance of recreational parks face several challenges, including inadequate funding, poor urban planning, neglect by government agencies, and low public awareness. According to Eze and Olayemi (2021), many Nigerian cities are characterized by unplanned growth patterns, which leave little room for organized recreational spaces. They reported that even in cities where such parks exist, they are often under-equipped, poorly maintained, or located in areas with limited access to the general public.
The growing concern over sedentary lifestyles, climate change, and declining community health further emphasizes the need for functional recreational parks. Well-designed and inclusive parks have the potential to improve air quality, provide shade, reduce noise, and serve as platforms for civic engagement. Thus, their integration into urban and rural development plans is becoming increasingly important. This study is set against the backdrop of the urgent need to establish a well-planned, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable recreational park that addresses both the social and ecological needs of the population.
1.2.1 Historical Background of the Study Area
Keffi is one of the prominent urban centers located in Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria. Historically, it was established in the year 1800 by Abdul Zanga (also known as Abdullah), a Fulani warrior from the northern region of Nigeria. He founded Keffi as the seat of a vassal emirate under the influence of the Emir of Zaria, situated approximately 246 kilometers (153 miles) to the north. Throughout the 19th century, Keffi remained a tributary to Zaria, although it frequently suffered slave raids. During the reign of Sidi Umaru, a conflict with the neighboring town of Nasarawa led to an additional tribute of slaves being paid to Zaria (Local Historical Archive, n.d.).
In 1902, the British colonial administration relocated the headquarters of Nasarawa Province to Keffi. This strategic move was intended to secure trade routes connecting the Benue River to northern Nigeria. A turning point occurred when a British colonial official stationed in Keffi was killed by a Zaria-appointed representative known as the Magaji, who then fled to Kano, a dominant Fulani emirate 350 kilometers (220 miles) northwest. This incident triggered a British military campaign that culminated in the conquest of Kano in 1903 (Local Historical Archive, n.d.).
The people of Keffi have inhabited the area for over 250 years prior to the creation of the present-day Nasarawa State. Traditionally, the emirate is predominantly occupied by the Gwandara people, who are primarily engaged in farming as well as tin and columbite mining. Keffi has developed into an educational and administrative center, housing a teacher training college, a general hospital, and the Nasarawa State University, which was established under the administration of the state's first civilian governor, Abdullahi Adamu. The university has since attracted people from other states such as Kogi, Plateau, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory, contributing to the area's population growth and urban development (Abdullahi, 2005).
Geographically, Keffi is endowed with rolling hills, fertile land suitable for agriculture, and expansive plains ideal for infrastructure expansion. The area lies within the West African sub-regional climatic zone, characterized by patches of rainforest that are particularly evident in the southern and southeastern terrains. Keffi is one of the few remaining locations in Nasarawa State where mature forest vegetation still exists. The rainy season typically starts in April and ends in October. Temperatures range from 28°C (82.4°F) to as high as 40°C (104°F) during the day, while night temperatures can drop to as low as 12°C (53.6°F) (Nigerian Meteorological Agency, 2023).
Keffi falls within the UTC+1 time zone and is geographically positioned at latitude 8.84710°N and longitude 7.87760°E. The urbanization of Keffi accelerated during the colonial era when it was governed by provincial and native authorities. As a result, it became one of the administrative divisions that laid the foundation for modern urban centers in the region. Today, Keffi stands as the second most urbanized area in Nasarawa State after the capital city, Lafia (Ezekiel, 2019).
1.3 Motivation to the Study
A country with a high standard of living is bound to have a high participation in recreational park. The high standard of living referred to their centers on high disposable income, which is also accompanied by reduction in working hours and long leisure time. These have to be money to spent, as well as the referee time to spend it. Some geographical and social factor previously discussed, on the introductory page.
This is one of the things been looked at to create an environment at Keffis, which will serve as a conducive atmosphere for the project and also to serve as a short time visit to the recreational area for the purpose of recreational education and business. It will therefore, include visitors, seminars, conventions etc. this will be phased out in stage of development for the smooth emerged of facilities, which are relevant and marketable at the time of implementation.
1.4 Statement of Problems
As a result of the struggle of human day in day our for survival, the rate at which people in Abuja and its neighboring environment engages themselves to work either as a student, self-employed, public or private sector servant overtime with little or no time for recreational activities. To this end, the government of Federal Capital Territory Abuja has put in place some organ to help in the growth of recreational activities in Abuja. The most popular among all the recreation activities is a recreational park.
This is because low capital is needed to start the project and also due to the availabilities of some natural or organic elements like water. Many recreational places exist and it is mainly for individuals or private sector. It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to explore the problems hindering the planning and implementation of a proposed recreational park.
1.5 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to assess the potential impact and feasibility of establishing a proposed recreational park that promotes environmental sustainability, public health, and community well-being. The specific objectives of this study are:
- To identify the need and demand for a recreational park within the selected area.
- To evaluate the design elements necessary for inclusivity and sustainability.
- To assess community awareness, perception, and interest in the use of recreational parks.
- To identify challenges and opportunities for park development and long-term maintenance.
- To recommend strategies for the successful implementation of the proposed recreational park.
1.6 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What is the level of community demand for a recreational park in the selected area?
- What inclusive and sustainable design features are most appropriate for the proposed park?
- How aware and interested is the community in the use and benefits of recreational parks?
- What are the potential challenges and opportunities in the development of the proposed park?
- What strategic measures are necessary for successful implementation and management?
1.7 Justification of the Project
It is believed that at the completion of the study, this project will serve as a blueprint for addressing the shortage of safe, inclusive, and eco-friendly recreational spaces. The study will justify the importance of such parks in improving urban quality of life, promoting physical health, and fostering stronger community bonds.
The design architecturally can never be emerged as it to broaden our knowledge and scope of understanding in the profession. Each design in architecture is authorized to its uniqueness in concept, functionalities. Economically is to provide employment opportunity for a good number of people that will work there, so also source of revenue. The park in terms of social culturally, will serve as a place for infraction, religious, cultural activities as well as reaction for the people of Abuja and its environs.
1.8 Scope of Study
This study focuses on the planning, design, and development of a proposed recreational park. The scope of this project is limited to providing basic facilities for the general welfare of the recreational park on the site which include:
- Administrative block
- Indoor Game
- Club House
- Ticketing / clinic
- Canteen
- Out Door game
- Relaxation Area
- Children play Area/Arena
- Swimming
- Masque Centre
- Hotel
- Zoom
1.9 Limitations of the Study
There are some factors that hampered the extension of this project work. in the process of gathering the information, I encountered some problems which include the following:
The project work is constraint to design scope listed above.
- The project work requires sufficient time and since this is lacking, it has serve as limitation to the research work.
- Most of the respondents were not willing to provide information.
- In Nigeria most information were kept secret. This was a major constraint for data collection by me notwithstanding the white exercise has been very stimulated in identification of customer needs and seeking to satisfy ones need.
1.10 Methodology
This study will adopt a mixed-method approach involving both qualitative and quantitative data collection. Primary data will be obtained through questionnaires and interviews with residents, local authorities, and urban planners in the study area. Secondary data will include literature, government reports, and urban planning documents. A descriptive survey design will be used to analyze the community's needs and preferences, while Geographic Information System (GIS) tools may be employed to map suitable land for park development.
Data will be analyzed using simple statistics and thematic content analysis to interpret community responses. According to Creswell (2014), using a mixed-method approach enhances the reliability and depth of research findings by providing both numerical data and contextual insight.
1.11 Definition of Terms
Recreational Park: A planned outdoor area designated for leisure, relaxation, physical activity, and environmental education. It typically includes green spaces, playgrounds, walking trails, and seating areas (Ajayi & Abegunde, 2012).
Sustainable Development: Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (Brundtland Report, 1987).
Inclusivity: The practice of ensuring accessibility and usability of public spaces for all individuals regardless of age, ability, or socio-economic background (Adeyemi & Ogunleye, 2020).
Community Engagement: A process through which residents participate in planning and decision-making to influence outcomes that affect their lives and environment (Eze & Nwakor, 2019).
Urban Green Space: A piece of land in urban areas covered with vegetation, used for recreational or environmental purposes (Ogunbanwo & Akinpelu, 2020).
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