A Systematic Review of Housing Shortage in Nigeria

Iniobong Beauty  John; Michael A.  Adebamowo; Samuel  Adekunle; Clinton  Aigbavboa; Ibironke Elizabeth  Aaron; Adedoyin  Afolabi

Iniobong Beauty John Department of Quantity Surveying, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Lagos, Nigeria
Michael A. Adebamowo Department of Architecture, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Lagos, Nigeria
Samuel Adekunle Centre for Sustainable Construction Management and Leadership in the Built Environment, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg
Clinton Aigbavboa Centre for Sustainable Construction Management and Leadership in the Built Environment, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg
Ibironke Elizabeth Aaron Department of Estate Management, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Lagos, Nigeria
Adedoyin Afolabi Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, Lagos State University

Keywords: Housing affordability, Government housing policy, Nigeria, Housing deficit, Housing conditions

Abstract

Particularly in the Global South, housing shortage has been a major issue worldwide. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) approach, this study investigates the housing challenge in Nigeria within the context of current economic conditions and government policies. Given that Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and that it is experiencing rapid urbanization, it is understandable that the country is facing an acute shortage of affordable housing. To address the problem, this study identifies key
factors affecting housing affordability, such as inflation, poor maintenance practices and ineffective regulatory enforcement. It also examines existing government policies, including the National Housing Fund, and evaluates their effectiveness in addressing the housing deficit. The study found significant gaps between policy intentions and outcomes, highlighting the need for more robust and inclusive housing strategies. The study concludes with recommendations for policy improvements and methods to enhance housing affordability in Nigeria