Urban Transformation in Akure, Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects of a Renewal Initiative

Akure, the capital city of Ondo state, has witnessed a spate of urban transformation and renewal in recent times, especially since 2009, when the administration headed by Dr. Olusegun Mimiko took over the affairs of the state. This study investigates the urban renewal initiative in Ondo State, using Akure as a case study, with the aim of assessing its challenges and prospects in advancing liveable and sustainable urban development in Nigeria. Data were collected from 150 residents of the study area where urban renewal took place for questionnaire administration. In-depth interviews were conducted with selected individuals involved in the implementation of the programme. Data analysis employed frequency counts, percentages, and content analysis. The study showed that 75% of the respondents endorsed and supported the urban renewal programmes, while 82% observed that the compensation given to owners of affected properties was not adequate. The study discovered that the absence of a citywide plan, a lack of synergy between the state government, local government, and private sector, a lack of public participation, and a shortage of funds were the challenges of the urban renewal exercise in the study area. Despite these challenges, it was observed that the programme was implemented to improve the living conditions in the study area. It was also recorded that the programme is a veritable tool for creating employment for the teeming population. The study concluded that the programme lacks adequate plans to guide its implementation. The study recommended that a comprehensive citywide master plan should be developed to guide development and integrate housing, infrastructure, transportation, and environmental priorities.