ASSESSMENT OF RESIDENTS’ AWARENESS OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND IMPACT ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC WELLBEING IN CALABAR METROPOLIS OF CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA: IMPLICATIONS FOR COUNSELLING

Abstract

This study assessed residents awareness of COVID-19 pandemic and socio-economic wellbeing in Calabar Metropolis, Cross River State, Nigeria. Two research questions were formulated to guide the study. Literature review was carried out based on the variables under study. Descriptive research design was utilized. Accidental sampling technique was used in selecting the respondents sampled for the study. A validated 15 items opened ended questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection. The reliability estimate of the instrument was 0.81 using Cronbach Alpha reliability method. Data was analysed using the descriptive analysis. The result of the study revealed that  the awareness level about the impact of Covid-19 is low, and that there is a significant impact of the pandemic on social and economic well being of residents.. It was recommended that government can ensure food security for the most vulnerable through expansion of social safety net programmes, including cash transfers and cash for work programmes, while ensuring inclusive distribution strategies. At the same time, it is recommended that measures are put in place to ensure that current efforts of palliative distribution do not undermine the productive agencies while capacities of individuals and households are instead amplified