Socioeconomic Determinants Influencing the Affordability and Sustainability of Urban Housing in Nigeria

• Author(s): Mike Ikemefuna Nwafor; Gil-Ozoudeh Ifechukwu Desmond Stephen; Daniel Obokhai Uduokhai; Adepeju Nafisat Aransi
• Paper ID: 1712237
• Page: 154-169
• Published Date: 30-09-2018
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 2 Issue 3 September-2018

Abstract

Urban housing affordability and sustainability represent dual challenges in Nigeria’s rapidly expanding cities, where socioeconomic disparities and weak institutional frameworks have deepened the housing deficit. This study examines the key socioeconomic determinants influencing the affordability and long-term sustainability of urban housing, emphasizing the interplay between income structures, policy regimes, material costs, and demographic dynamics. This synthesizes evidence from major metropolitan areas—Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano—where rapid urbanization, informal settlements, and speculative land practices have intensified the cost of shelter. Findings indicate that household income and employment status are primary determinants of affordability, particularly given the dominance of informal-sector earnings and limited access to formal credit systems. Land tenure insecurity, driven by the rigidities of the Land Use Act of 1978, further constrains ownership and investment opportunities. High construction costs, dependence on imported materials, and currency fluctuations exacerbate the affordability gap, while inadequate mortgage infrastructure limits middle- and low-income participation in formal housing markets. Beyond affordability, sustainability outcomes are shaped by economic, social, and environmental factors. Limited adoption of energy-efficient designs, weak enforcement of building codes, and minimal integration of local materials undermine environmental resilience. Social sustainability is equally challenged by spatial segregation, gentrification, and inadequate community participation in planning processes. The study highlights that addressing Nigeria’s housing crisis requires a systems approach linking affordability and sustainability through inclusive policies, local capacity development, and innovative financing mechanisms such as rent-to-own and cooperative housing models. The research concludes that achieving sustainable urban housing in Nigeria depends on balancing socioeconomic equity with ecological performance, supported by coherent governance frameworks and data-driven urban planning. This integrated understanding is essential for realizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11 on sustainable cities and communities.

Keywords

Urban Housing, Socioeconomic Determinants, Affordability, Sustainability, Nigeria, Land Tenure, Housing Finance, Policy Integration

Citations

IRE Journals:
Mike Ikemefuna Nwafor, Gil-Ozoudeh Ifechukwu Desmond Stephen, Daniel Obokhai Uduokhai, Adepeju Nafisat Aransi "Socioeconomic Determinants Influencing the Affordability and Sustainability of Urban Housing in Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 2 Issue 3 2018 Page 154-169

IEEE:
Mike Ikemefuna Nwafor, Gil-Ozoudeh Ifechukwu Desmond Stephen, Daniel Obokhai Uduokhai, Adepeju Nafisat Aransi "Socioeconomic Determinants Influencing the Affordability and Sustainability of Urban Housing in Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 2(3)