Sustainable Housing Delivery in Cities by Private Developer

The rapid pace of urbanisation in Nigeria has led to a complex and multifaceted housing crisis. As cities like Lagos continue to grow at an unprecedented rate, the demand for adequate and sustainable housing has become increasingly urgent. The concept of sustainable housing encompasses not only the provision of shelter but also the integration of environmental, social, and economic factors to create resilient and livable communities. This article explores the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable housing in Nigeria, focusing on the critical issues of housing quality, affordability, and infrastructure.

The struggle to keep pace with emerging trends in urbanisation across Nigerian cities has created a plethora of various housing conditions wherein the best, moderate, and worst forms of housing coexist. Despite the continuous population growth in metropolitan Lagos concerning geometrical proportions, a dissimilarity exists between the provision of housing that can meet the demands of citizens and urban infrastructure. This has resulted in a massive housing shortage in the state. Lagos State accounts for about 5 million housing deficits, representing 31% of the estimated national housing deficit of 18 million. [1]

Several studies maintained that decent and affordable housing constitutes the bedrock of livable urban communities, but inadequate housing has remained a hydra-headed and intractable problem to human existence. Inadequacy, in this context, has two dimensions. In one instance, a house(s) may not exist in the required or expected quality; this could be in terms of quality deficiency relating to location, the size and number of functional units, use of materials as well as their assemblage, state of physical fitness or the insecurity of the place. In such situations, housing vacancy can be said not to be sufficient for its use or occupation as it will not match the quality requirements of the prospective occupants. [2]

Sustainable housing prioritises the use of eco-friendly materials and construction methods to reduce the environmental impact of buildings. This includes the incorporation of renewable energy sources, efficient water management systems, and the use of locally sourced materials to minimise carbon footprints. By adopting these practices, sustainable housing projects can contribute to the overall health of the environment and promote long-term ecological balance. [3]

Social sustainability in housing involves creating communities that are inclusive, equitable, and supportive of diverse populations. This means ensuring that housing is accessible to people of all income levels and that neighbourhoods are designed to foster social interaction and community cohesion. Sustainable housing projects often include amenities such as parks, community centres, and public transportation to enhance the quality of life for residents. [4]

Economic sustainability in housing focuses on affordability and long-term financial viability. This involves designing housing projects that are cost-effective to build and maintain, while also ensuring that they remain affordable for residents over time. Sustainable housing can also stimulate local economies by creating jobs in the construction and maintenance sectors, as well as by supporting local businesses and services. [5]

The massive housing deficit in Lagos and other Nigerian cities presents both a significant challenge and an opportunity for sustainable development. Innovative solutions are needed to bridge the gap between housing demand and supply. This includes the adoption of new construction technologies, the development of mixed-use housing projects, and the implementation of policies that encourage sustainable practices. [6]

Effective policy and regulation are crucial for promoting sustainable housing. Governments can play a key role by setting standards for building materials, energy efficiency, and environmental impact. Incentives such as tax breaks and subsidies can also encourage developers to adopt sustainable practices. Additionally, policies that promote affordable housing can help ensure that sustainable housing is accessible to all segments of the population. [7]

Community engagement is essential for the success of sustainable housing projects. By involving local communities in the planning and design process, developers can ensure that housing projects meet the needs and preferences of residents. This can lead to greater acceptance and long-term sustainability of housing projects. [8]

The housing crisis in Nigeria is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. Sustainable housing offers a promising solution by integrating environmental, social, and economic factors to create resilient and livable communities. By addressing the housing deficit through innovative solutions, effective policy and regulation, and community engagement, Nigeria can pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable future.