ABSTRACT

This study examined the contingent valuation for household water consumption in Umuahia North Local Government Area. The specific objectives were to identify the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents in the study area, the sources of water to households and the effects of the, socio-economic characteristics of households and their willingness to pay for water. The survey used a random sampling technique to collect primary data from random sample of 105 respondents with the help of a well structured questionnaire. Secondary data were collected from textbooks, journals, World Bank publications and other relevant documents. Analysis was done using descriptive statistical tools like tables, frequencies, percentages and multiple regression analysis. From the results, it was observed that some of the socio-economic characteristics affects the willingness to pay for water. This result also shows that income is the principal or significant factor influencing the willingness to pay for water. In the regression analysis for private water connections, linear model was used as the lead equation with Income, Household size and Education significant at 1%, 10% and 10% respectively. The value of the multiple determination R2was 0.76 and F-ratio was significant at 1%. In the regression analysis for public water standpipes, linear model was also used as the lead equation with Constant, Income, Household Size, Age, and Drought significant at 1%, 10%, 5%, /o and 5% respectively. The value of the multiple determination R was 0.31 and F-ratio was significant at 1%. Recommendations were preferred based on the findings.