Global Journal of Earth and Environmental Science

Due to the increase in urban population and exorbitant rent in urban areas, so many people tend to live in shanty dwellings. As a result of this, shanty residents are faced with many challenges. The study analysed the challenges faced by the residents of Obiagu Shanty Area in Enugu Metropolitan City, Nigeria, and aims to provide better retrofitting options. The data was obtained using a questionnaire survey. The statistical techniques employed to analyse the data are descriptive statistics (such as simple percentages, standard deviation and mean) and inferential statistics (Principal Component Analysis). The study indicates that the key challenges of the residents of Obiagu Shanty Area are: High rate of criminality/criminal activities, poor building structures and overcrowding/over-population. Therefore, the study recommends some retrofitting measures, such as the construction of modern houses with modern facilities and good sewage systems, the government partnering with private organisations to help in the retrofitting of facilities in the area, and regular public enlightenment programs to reduce the level of criminality and the number of badly behaved individuals, harlots, and drug traffickers in the area, amongst others.