Evaluating the Perceived Importance and Architectural Variations of Socio-Cultural Spaces in Selected Riverine Communities in Rivers State, Nigeria

Volume: 11 | Issue: 01 | Year 2025 | Subscription
International Journal of Town Planning and Management
Received Date: 01/31/2025
Acceptance Date: 02/14/2025
Published On: 2025-02-25
First Page: 53
Last Page: 63

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By: Amakiri I.T and Brisibe, W. G.

1. Lecturer, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
2. Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract

This study evaluates the perceived importance and architectural variations of socio-cultural spaces in selected Riverine communities in Rivers State, Nigeria. These spaces, including village squares, market squares, community halls, waterfronts, jetties, cultural centers, and worship centers, are pivotal to fostering economic growth, social cohesion, and cultural heritage. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining field surveys for primary data and scholarly articles for secondary data to provide a comprehensive evaluation. Stratified random sampling ensured demographic representation, with 147 stakeholders selected from a population of 300 using the Taro Yamane formula. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as frequency tables and percentages, and inferential statistics, including Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), to identify variations in perceptions. Findings reveal that worship centers were perceived as the most important socio-cultural spaces (mean score 4.62), followed by waterfronts and jetties (4.58) and village squares (4.56), while cultural centers ranked lowest (4.30). Statistically significant variations (F = 3.854, P = 0.0042) underscore the diverse priorities across communities. The study highlights the critical roles of these spaces in shaping economic activities, transportation, cultural heritage, and social interactions. Thus, recommendations emphasize prioritizing spaces tied to worship, economic, and social activities to enhance cultural sustainability and community well-being. This study underscores the need for targeted interventions to preserve the architectural and functional integrity of socio-cultural spaces in Riverine communities.

Keywords: Perceived importance, architectural variations, socio-cultural spaces, Riverine communities

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Citation:

How to cite this article: Amakiri I.T and Brisibe, W. G., Evaluating the Perceived Importance and Architectural Variations of Socio-Cultural Spaces in Selected Riverine Communities in Rivers State, Nigeria. International Journal of Town Planning and Management. 2025; 11(01): 53-63p.

How to cite this URL: Amakiri I.T and Brisibe, W. G., Evaluating the Perceived Importance and Architectural Variations of Socio-Cultural Spaces in Selected Riverine Communities in Rivers State, Nigeria. International Journal of Town Planning and Management. 2025; 11(01): 53-63p. Available from:https://journalspub.com/publication/ijtpm/article=15972

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