Sustainable Development: A Panacea for Nigeria’s Housing Deficit – Mubarak Aremu
Introduction:
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, faces a persistent housing deficit that affects millions of its citizens. Addressing this challenge requires a holistic approach, with sustainable development emerging as a potential solution.
By integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations, sustainable development offers a pathway to meet the housing demands of today while safeguarding the needs of future generations.
It is important to understand that the way forward to growth, for most industries, is the path to a green and environmentally-conservative operational approach.
In this article, how sustainable development can solve the housing deficit pandemic in Nigeria, would be outlined.
First, Nigeria’s housing deficit is rising, and is estimated to hit 50 million units in 2024. Increased poverty rates, rapid urbanization, population growth, and inadequate housing policies contribute to this crisis.
Millions of Nigerians struggle to find decent and affordable shelter, leading to overcrowding, informal settlements, and substandard living conditions. However, sustainable development principles can play a transformative role in resolving this issue.
Below are some fractions of sustainable development that can cushion the impact of housing deficit for the teeming Nigerian populace.
Environmental Sustainability:
Sustainable development advocates for environmentally responsible practices in the construction and management of housing projects. By utilizing eco-friendly building materials, adopting energy-efficient designs, and implementing renewable energy solutions, Nigeria can reduce its carbon footprint while ensuring comfortable living environments.
Additionally, incorporating green spaces, rainwater harvesting systems, and waste management strategies can enhance the overall sustainability of housing developments.
Social Equity and Inclusivity:
Sustainable development emphasizes social equity and inclusivity in housing provision. It promotes affordable housing initiatives, social housing programs, and cooperative housing models that cater to the needs of low-income earners and vulnerable populations.
By prioritizing access to secure tenure, basic amenities, and community infrastructure, sustainable housing developments can foster social cohesion and improve the quality of life for all Nigerians.
Overall, it solely rests on the idea of communal development and co-creation. Fortunately, real estate companies like Gidi Real Estate Investment Limited are already charting this co-creation course.
some of their building projects that allows the property subscribers to build together with the developers in a customizable developmental mode. All in a bid to ease housing deficit with sustainable building projects.
Economic Viability:
Sustainable housing development offers economic benefits for both individuals and the nation as a whole. It stimulates job creation in the construction sector, boosts local economies through the procurement of building materials, and attracts private investment.
Lastly, energy-efficient housing reduces utility costs for residents, freeing up resources for other essential needs. The integration of sustainability into the housing sector can contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth and resilience while creating a sustainable housing market.
Conclusion:
Nigeria’s housing deficit is a complex challenge, but sustainable development provides a promising and long-serving solution at the end of the road. By prioritizing environmental sustainability, social equity, and economic viability, Nigeria can bridge the housing gap while ensuring the well-being of its citizens.
Implementing sustainable development principles in housing projects is not only a necessity but a strategic investment in a brighter, more inclusive future for Nigeria.
Author: Mubarak Aremu
Mubarak Aremu is a digital marketer at Gidi Real Estate Investment Limited.
