African Journal of Housing and Sustainable Development

Spatial Analysis of Electrical Power Consumption Patterns of Unmetered Customers in Agboju, Lagos State

H. O. Odunuga, E. O. Wunude — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 15:01:34 +0000

Using geospatial techniques, this study investigates the electrical energy consumption patterns of unmetered Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) customers that receive energy from a 500kvA public distribution transformer in Agboju, Lagos State. The study identified and mapped all the electrical infrastructure within the study area and classified the unmetered customers by level of energy consumption as well as land use and revenue collection efficiency. It also analysed the energy consumption patterns in kilowatt-hour of unmetered customers and ultimately determined the priority for metering within the study area. Alongside Spatial Inequality Theory, studies from previous research were reviewed in order to provide a wholesome understanding of discussions in the electricity consumption space. Fieldwork was conducted to collect spatial data on buildings and electrical infrastructures. The secondary data on energy consumption was sourced from EKEDC. The study adopted a quantitative methodology, with spatial autocorrelation technique utilized to determine spatial associations in energy billing and revenue collections of the unmetered customers. To determine metering priority, the researchers used an ordinal scale of measurements to categorise the customers from A to H. None of the unmetered customers made Category A and only six customers made Category B. The study concludes that spatial patterns in energy consumption or revenue collection efficiency are random, given the results of the spatial autocorrelation analysis. Thus, electricity distribution organizations can maximize revenue by strategically prioritizing meter deployment in high-potential locations through thorough evaluation and mapping of unmetered consumers.

Analysis of the Effects of Urbanisation on Economic Diversification in Africa

Hervé Nenghem Takam, Timothy Nubi — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 22:17:30 +0000

The objective of this study is to analyse the effect of urbanisation on economic diversification in Africa. The methodology used to achieve this objective is based on the approach developed by Driscoll and Kraay (1998), the Generalised Least Squares (GLS) method and the Systematic Two-Stage Generalised Method of Moments (SGMM). The data used in this study are all drawn from the World Bank’s World Development Indicators (WDI) and World Governance Indicators (WGI) databases, as well as the COMTRADE database of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). This study covers a sample of 53 African countries over the period from 2000 to 2022. Economic diversification is measured in this study using the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI). The results of this study show that urbanisation has a negative and statistically significant effect on economic diversification in Africa. This finding indicates that rapid urban growth reduces economic diversification. Furthermore, the results of this study show that institutional variables — such as the rule of law, regulatory quality, political stability and government effectiveness — are the channels through which urbanisation influences economic diversification in Africa. Moreover, our results hold up when using an alternative measure of economic diversification, namely the Theil Index. The findings of this study indicate that public authorities must implement strategic urban planning to support productive sectors. This will encourage better-planned urbanisation by integrating industrial, technological and artisanal zones into cities to foster the development of diversified economic sectors.

Green-Building Practices: Reducing Emissions and Enhancing Urban Housing Sustainability in Africa

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 22:44:38 +0000

Through a systematic concept map, this study theoretically explores the effectiveness of green-building practices in reducing carbon emissions and enhancing sustainability in urban housing. The building and construction industry is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions globally because of its substantial use of materials and energy, which inevitably results in carbon emissions and waste, thereby worsening the greenhouse effect by causing global temperature rise. The adverse consequences of these practices are amplified as society's resources are depleted through the consumption of non-renewable energy sources, thus contributing to the gradual deterioration of the earth's ecological environment. Importantly, the long lifespan of existing buildings means that the impact of poor building practices in Africa will be felt for decades to come. The researcher conducted a systematic literature review involving peer-reviewed journal articles, conference proceedings, books and relevant industry reports obtained from academic databases such as Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. The review was structured on essential themes surrounding sustainable building practices in urban housing, capable of reducing carbon emissions. The study found that the use of non-renewable energy sources, such as coal, oil, gas and diesel generators which are heavily relied upon for heating, cooling and lighting of buildings lead to high carbon emissions, putting them among the primary drivers of carbon emissions in the construction sector. Numerous studies have highlighted not only challenges but also the effectiveness of green building practices in mitigating carbon emissions and promoting sustainability in urban housing. It was also found that the adoption of green building practices such as energy-efficient design, renewable energy integration and efficient water management can lead to reductions of up to 30% in CO2 emissions while simultaneously improving indoor air quality and creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment for residents in the African context. Given these findings, the study concludes that inefficient building design and construction practices result in energy-inefficient buildings that undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

Challenges and Prospects of Spatial Data Infrastructure for Physical Development Planning in Lagos State, Nigeria

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 06:51:10 +0000

Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) plays a pivotal role in land-use planning, infrastructure provision and sustainable urban development. In Lagos State, SDI adoption remains low despite the growing complexity and need of urban data-oriented decision-making. This paper examines the challenges impeding the implementation of SDI and its potential to support physical development planning. The paper adopted a mixed-method design that incorporates qualitative data obtained by use of structured interviews and field observations alongside spatial analysis of eleven development plans, consisting of Master Plans and Model City Plans. Data format, data compatibility, and spatial integrity were assessed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools. The results indicate the existence of a few technical and institutional limitations: ongoing use of AutoCAD instead of GIS-based formats, inconsistent use of coordinate systems, disaggregated spatial data, inadequate GIS capabilities of employees, and ineffective inter-agency collaboration. These issues have compromised effective planning, sharing of information and coordination of different development plans. In spite of these shortcomings, the research reveals an emerging scenario: growing political support for adoption of digital planning tools, expansion of technical capacity within governmental institutions and willingness of planning professionals to utilise spatial technologies. The paper suggests feasible measures such as the creation of centralised cloud-based geospatial database, data format standardisation, use of GIS platforms, institutional framework coordination and improvement of capacity building. The study concludes that Lagos State can enhance its spatial data systems by managing these challenges through institutional reforms and technological investments to facilitate more efficient, inclusive and resilient urban planning. The results are relevant to the wider discussion of sustainable land management and infrastructure governance in African cities.

Innovative Approaches to Sustainable Land Management: Strategies for Urban Resilience in Lagos, Nigeria

F. A. Balogun, W. A. Obikunle — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 06:54:31 +0000

The twin factors of rapid urbanisation and population growth in Lagos have led to significant environmental challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, flooding and land degradation. This paper explores a range of Sustainable Land Management (SLM) practices, including green infrastructure, community engagement and the use of technology for monitoring and managing urban landscapes, with a focus on strategies that promote urban resilience. The conceptual framework rests on the principles of sustainability and resilience, while systematic review of literature was adopted as methodology. A comprehensive analysis of literature from peer-reviewed journals, policy reports and case studies conducted between 2010 and 2023 on efforts in sustainable land management, challenges to innovative approaches in sustainable land management and strategies for sustainable land management reveals an effective action plan that integrates ecological principles with urban planning. Key findings from the systematic review indicate that adaptive governance, stakeholder collaboration and promotion of ecosystem services are essential for fostering resilience against climate-change impacts. Additionally, the incorporation of local knowledge and cultural values significantly enhances community buy-in and sustainable practices. The review underscores the importance of context-specific solutions tailored to the unique socio-economic conditions of Lagos. By identifying best practices and potential pitfalls in implementation, this paper provides valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners seeking to create sustainable urban environments in Nigeria and similar contexts.

Facility Managers’ Competencies and Smart-Technology Performance in Gated Real-Estate Developments in Ghana

Williams Miller Appau — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 06:56:40 +0000

Sustainable Housing Financing as a Market-Shaping Mechanism in African Real-Estate

Nurudeen Akinsola Bello, Samson Oluseun Ojekalu, Modinat Adepeju Akeju — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 06:58:08 +0000

UN-Habitat (2023) estimates that the housing shortage in African cities exceeds 56 million, even as these cities are projected to house more than 1 billion residents by 2050. In the face of rapid urbanization, sustained population growth and increasing vulnerability to climate-related risks, the African real-estate sector needs to undergo substantial reform. Specifically, the current models of housing financing seem incapable of matching current housing demand levels because the models are oriented towards financial returns (short-term) instead of a combination of social and environmental impact (long-term). This short-term orientation has been attributed to the increased costs of housing construction that aided challenges of affordability, resulting in the continued growth of informal settlements and degradation of the environment. Thus, this study examines how sustainable housing financing and investment strategies can reshape the future of African real-estate markets by integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles with innovative financing mechanisms. Using a conceptual and integrative literature review approach, the study synthesizes insights from policy reports, literature and selected case experiences from Rwanda, Kenya and Nigeria. This is to lower construction costs towards improving the affordability of real-estate development and decreasing negative environmental impacts without jeopardizing urban sustainability objectives. The study mainly focuses on the use of local building materials, financing instruments and regulatory frameworks that are climate-responsive. This will require adopting low-carbon construction methods while embedding the ESG principle in real-estate investment decisions. The findings reveal that structural barriers, e.g. fragmented regulations, limited access to long-term finance and low technical capacity, inevitably constrain sustainable housing delivery. However, emerging instruments such as green bonds, blended finance, real-estate investment trusts (REITs) and public-private partnerships (PPPs) demonstrate strong potential when supported by coherent policy frameworks. ESG integration enhances investment transparency and risk management, while locally sourced, low-carbon materials can reduce construction costs and environmental impacts. The study highlights the need for integrated housing financing models aligned with sustainability policies, strengthened institutional frameworks and scalable, innovative financing mechanisms. To be sure, aligning real-estate development with Sustainable Development Goal 11 and Agenda 2063 is critical for achieving inclusive, resilient and low-carbon urban futures in Africa.

Resilient Home Financing: Cooperative Societies and Home Ownership among Staff of the University of Ibadan

Tiwalayo Rachael Taiwo — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 06:59:12 +0000

Many workers in Nigeria struggle with inadequate housing due to ineffective housing policies. To address this issue, they often turn to cooperative societies (CS) as a means of home financing. This study evaluates the impact of CS on home ownership among staff at the University of Ibadan, utilizing a sequential mixed-methods approach. Via purposive and random sampling techniques that achieved a 95% response rate, data was collected from six CS, involving 154 members. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics (Chisquare), while qualitative insights were gathered from focus group discussions with CS leaders. The findings of this research highlight the resourcefulness and adaptability of university staff in the face of housing insecurity. Thus, CS are shown as a resilient medium through which workers source housing finance despite systemic exclusion.

Socio-Economic Determinants of Housing and Environmental Quality: Evidence from Kubwa, Abuja

R. A. Kuranga, A. A. Ahmed, B. B. Moshood, O. M. Abutu — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 07:00:26 +0000

Socio-economic determinants of housing and environmental quality are critical, serving as indicators of urban liveability and residents’ well-being. However, they face significant challenges in the rapidly urbanising cities of the Global South. Accordingly, this study assessed the socio-economic determinants of housing and environmental quality in Kubwa, Bwari Area Council of Abuja, Nigeria. It adopted a mixed-methods approach, with primary data collected through the systematic administration of 392 copies of a questionnaire to residents across six neighbourhoods. Descriptive techniques, chi-square (X2 ) and multiple correlation were used to analyse the data and examine the relationships among housing and environmental quality, income and the educational status of residents. The results show moderately fair housing conditions with deteriorating environmental quality and deplorable infrastructure, indexed at 1.77. Building elements were rated fair at an index of 3.01 on a 5-point scale. Inferential analysis demonstrates a strong negative correlation (r = -0.676, p < 0.001) between socio-economic status (income and education) and residential quality. The regression model (R² = 0.774) confirms that income, education, accessibility and waste management are significant predictors of housing quality. The study concludes that residential conditions in Kubwa are fundamentally shaped by socio-economic inequalities. Consequently, it recommends prioritisation of infrastructural upgrades in deprived neighbourhoods, designing inclusive housing policies that support affordable materials and initiation of socio-economic empowerment programmes to enhance residents’ capacity for property maintenance.

Financing and Delivery of High-Quality Student Housing in Nigeria’s Federal Universities: Evidence from Southwestern Nigeria

O. A. Adelowokan , S. B. Agbola — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 07:01:43 +0000

This study focused on students’ housing financing in Nigeria. Historically, student housing in Nigerian tertiary institutions has been supported mainly by government funding. However, increasing student enrolment has placed significant pressure on this system as enrolment rate now exceeds the existing student housing capacity. This study aims to examine the available student housing stock, its deficit and the existing financial plan. Information was obtained through secondary sources and literature review, with narrative review used to interpret the collected information. Three universities: University of Ibadan (UI), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and University of Lagos (UNILAG) – were selected for the review. Findings show that only 30.5% of undergraduates were accommodated at the sampled universities, while 69.5% were not accommodated in the universities’ oncampus hostels. In addition, the universities lacked a detailed and structured financial plan to increase student housing capacity. Factors contributing to these results include limited funding, overcrowding, managerial bureaucracy and students’ actions. The paper concluded that the government and university management should create an enable environment for private investors to construct more on-campus accommodations to end students’ housing deficit.

Residents’ Environmental Health Awareness in a Traditional City: Lessons from Osogbo, Nigeria

Ibereola Tolu Ibitoye, Oluwole Philip Daramola, David Mobolaji — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 07:03:34 +0000

Human activities within the environment have led to an increase in the number of environmental health challenges recorded in recent times. Accordingly, this study examined a significant aspect of environmental crisis: residents’ environmental health awareness. The study focused on the traditional city of Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria. Data were obtained via questionnaire administered to 198 residents, who were systematically sampled from the three residential zones (65 from the core zone, 67 from the transition zone and 66 from the suburban zone) of the city. The data analyzed involved frequency distributions, Chi-Square and ANOVA. According to the data obtained, majority of the respondents were young adults between ages 31 and 45 (52.5%). Also, 40.9% of the respondents were males, while majority were females (59.1%). Majority of the respondents earned between N70,000 and N149,999 (55.0%). It was found that level of awareness varied throughout Osogbo, with, most respondents being very aware of the listed environmental health measures based on the Relative Importance Index generated from the responses. Equally varying across the city was the level of effectiveness of environmental health measures that can engender positive environmental health responses, as only 6 out of the 13 existing measures were rated to be very effective by the respondents. Thus, this study recommends that environmental health bodies utilize approaches that may be suitable for each residential zone. This approach will raise awareness about environmental health among residents and enhance their understanding of environmental health. Furthermore, individuals, communitybased organizations and the government should work together to provide environmental health facilities, as this will elicit more positive responses from residents.