Sustainable Urban Planning and Development: A Systematic Review of Policies and Practices in Nigeria

This study provides a systematic review of sustainable urban planning and development policies and practices in Nigeria, analyzing their effectiveness, challenges, and successes. The Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act and the National Physical Development Plan form the core of the country's urban planning framework, aimed at promoting balanced regional growth and environmental sustainability. Through an in-depth analysis, the study reveals significant regional disparities, with major cities like Lagos and Abuja leading in infrastructure development and housing availability but falling short in environmental sustainability. Key barriers to effective implementation include inadequate funding, weak institutional capacity, and corruption. Despite these challenges, successful initiatives such as the Eko Atlantic City project and the Abuja Mass Transit Project demonstrate the potential for sustainable urban development through comprehensive planning, stakeholder collaboration, and local adaptation. The study underscores the importance of integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations into urban planning and offers practical recommendations for policymakers and practitioners. By comparing Nigerian practices with global examples, the study identifies valuable lessons and provides a foundation for future research and innovation in sustainable urban development.