Awareness and Acceptance of Hydra-form Brick Blocks for Teachers’ Housing in Bwari Area Council, Abuja

Abstract

Nigeria’s persistent housing deficit, driven by rapid urbanization, high construction costs, and systemic policy gaps, has left many public servants, particularly teachers, unable to access adequate and affordable housing. This study explored the potential of Hydra-form brick blocks a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to conventional sandcrete blocks for addressing housing needs in Bwari Area
Council of the Federal Capital Territory ( FCT), Abuja. The research assessed teachers’ awareness and perception of Hydra-form bricks and identified the key factors influencing their acceptance. A mixed-methods approach was employed, using questionnaires, observations, and reconnaissance surveys across eleven randomly selected public schools, with a sample of 226 teachers representing about 60% of the teacher population . Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, weighted mean scores, and Chisquare tests. Findings revealed that 62.5% of teachers were aware of Hydra-form bricks, with traditional and digital media being the main sources of information, while familiarity levels remained moderate (mean = 3.4). Environmental sustainability (47.8%), durability (20.3%), and
cost-effectiveness (18.1%) were the most recognized benefits, though misconceptions and lack of practical exposure limited broader acceptance. Preference for Hydra-form housing was high, with 79.7% agreeing they would live in such houses, and 49.6% expressing definite willingness to invest if prices matched those of traditional sandcrete houses. Durability, sustainability, and comfort were identified as the most critical factors shaping acceptance, while cost and government incentives played secondary roles. The Chi-square test (χ² = 17.54, p = 0.00015) confirmed a strong statistically significant association between preference and willingness to invest. The study concludes that Hydra-form bricks present a viable solution for sustainable teacher housing in Bwari, provided that awareness gaps, labor availability concerns, and trust issues are addressed. It recommends intensified sensitization through pilot projects, training programs for local artisans, supportive housing policies, and government-backed incentives such as subsidies or affordable financing. Continuous research and performance monitoring are further suggested to strengthen confidence and facilitate wider adoption of Hydra-form bricks as part of Nigeria’s sustainable housing strategy.