HEALTHY LIVING PROMOTION, WATER FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT AS A TOOL TO CHALLENGING SEDENTARY LIFESTYLES AND PROVISION OF SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY SECURITY AMONG RESIDENTS OF ILESE-IJEBU OGUN STATE NIGERIA

Abstract

The promotion of healthy living through activities such as health clubs, gym visits, recreation parks, and community water facilities has long been recognized as a vital approach to enhancing individual well-being. However, sedentary lifestyles continue to thrive in communities where such facilities are lacking. This study examines the impact of water facility development—including community fountains and swimming pools—as a strategic tool for promoting physical activity, reducing sedentary behaviour, and enhancing community security among residents of Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, Nigeria. A survey research design was employed, gathering responses from 100 residents aged 18 to 55 years using a random sampling technique. The findings revealed that 95% of respondents acknowledged that access to functional health promotion facilities significantly improves physical, mental, and social well-being while mitigating community vices. Despite the current absence of public water points and sports facilities, respondents strongly supported the integration of health promotion infrastructure into community development policies. The study concludes that investing in recreational and water-based community facilities can serve as a dual-purpose strategy for fostering active lifestyles and enhancing sustainable community security. Therefore, policy interventions should prioritize the provision of these facilities as a proactive measure to improve public health and
social stability.