ANALYSIS OF SMART CITY CONCEPTS AND THEIR APPLICABILITY IN NIGERIAN URBAN PLANNING (A CASE STUDY OF EKO CITY, LAGOS)

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1   Background to the Study

A city is a large urban area with complex land use, communications, transportation, sanitation, and housing systems. These systems enable efficient interaction between people, businesses and government entities, often creating mutual benefits. But cities also face major problems such as resource depletion, the spread of ecological footprints beyond their immediate boundaries and environmental degradation. Cities are often criticized for problems such as congestion, pollution, poor housing, deteriorating infrastructure, crime and poverty. Despite these challenges, cities are also centers of economic activity and innovation, driving global production and economic growth (Godschalk, 2003).

In Nigeria, the urban population has increased dramatically, rising from about 25% in 1990 to over 50% in 2020. Projections suggest that Nigeria's urban population will double by 2050, making effective urban planning a national imperative (UN Habitat, 2020). 1990: The rapid pace of urbanization in Nigeria, similar to other developing countries, exceeds the government's ability to effectively manage growth (Opoko & Oluwatayo, 2014). According to Oyedepo (2012), due to the rapid pace of expansion, government officials often lack the data they need to plan for sustainable development.

Furthermore, widespread corruption and depletion of national resources have made it difficult for the government to deal with urban problems (Babanyara et al., 2010). As a result, economic growth and development are insufficient to offset the investments needed to alleviate poverty and create opportunities. According to Opoko and Oluwatayo (2014), this inequality still has a detrimental impact on the quality of life and living standards of many Nigerians. The uncontrolled nature of urban growth in Nigeria has exacerbated various urban challenges, including inadequate housing, slum sprawl, poor water supply, waste disposal problems, traffic congestion, high unemployment rates, poverty and crime (Mabogunje, 1990). While housing shortage is a global problem, the scale of the problem in developing countries such as Nigeria is exacerbated by the limited resources available to address the problem.

The idea of “smart cities” has emerged as a possible solution to modernize urban infrastructure and improve the quality of life of citizens in the face of serious urban problems. To optimize urban processes, smart cities use state-of-the-art technologies such as data analysis, artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). These technologies are intended to improve efficiency in areas such as traffic management, energy consumption, waste management and public safety (Komninos, 2019).

By integrating such technologies, smart cities aim to reduce congestion, improve resource management and create more responsive and sustainable urban environments. Smart city concepts can provide creative answers to questions about transportation, energy distribution and waste disposal. For example, sophisticated traffic control and waste collection systems based on the Internet of Things could dramatically reduce inefficiencies in Lagos and Abuja, two of Nigeria's largest cities.

However, Nigeria often lacks the substantial investments in technology, robust governance structures, and highly skilled human capital required for these solutions (Adejumo & Adedokun, 2021). Therefore, the practical implementation of smart city solutions presents particular opportunities and challenges that are influenced by socio-economic, political and infrastructural realities (Adama, 2018). Nigeria faces challenges related to digital infrastructure, financing and policy direction. A study by Okafor et al., (2022) shows that less than 50% of Nigerians have access to reliable internet, a critical enabler of smart city technologies. Additionally, the cost of deploying such technologies remains a significant barrier, with limited public-private partnerships driving innovation.

Policymakers must address these issues by creating an enabling environment that encourages collaboration between government, private sector stakeholders and local communities. Examples from India and Brazil suggest that adapting smart city frameworks to local contexts can address such challenges and bring tangible benefits (Batista & Silva, 2020). Against this background, this article examines how smart city concepts can be contextualized in Nigerian urban planning frameworks to promote sustainable development and improve urban living conditions.

1.2   Statement of the Problem

Nigeria’s rapid urbanization has led to significant challenges in managing its urban centers. Cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt are experiencing severe strain on their infrastructure due to population growth, inadequate urban planning, and a lack of coordinated governance. According to UN-Habitat (2020), more than half of Nigeria's urban population lives in informal settlements without access to basic services like clean water, sanitation, and reliable electricity. These challenges are compounded by traffic congestion, poor waste management, and environmental degradation, which hinder economic productivity and quality of life. While the concept of smart cities offers innovative solutions to these problems by integrating technology with urban infrastructure, there has been limited exploration of how such concepts can be effectively adapted to Nigeria's socio-economic and infrastructural context.

Moreover, Nigeria faces significant barriers to implementing smart city initiatives, including inadequate digital infrastructure, limited public-private partnerships, and a lack of technical expertise. Less than 50% of the population has access to reliable internet connectivity, a critical enabler for smart city technologies (Okafor, Adebayo, & Johnson, 2022). Additionally, urban planning policies in Nigeria often fail to incorporate data-driven or technology-based approaches, further impeding progress toward smarter urban solutions. Without a clear framework for adapting smart city principles to local realities, Nigeria risks falling behind in addressing the growing urban challenges. This study seeks to analyze the feasibility and applicability of smart city concepts in Nigerian urban planning, identifying strategies to overcome these barriers and harness the potential benefits for sustainable development.Top of Form

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of the study is to examine Analysis of Smart City Concepts and their Applicability in Nigerian Urban Planning. Specific objectives of the study are:

1.   To identify and analyze the core concepts and technologies associated with smart city development.
2.   To assess the current state of urban planning and infrastructure in selected Nigerian cities.
   1.  To develop a framework for the implementation of smart city concepts in Nigerian urban planning.

1.4 Research Questions

To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:

1.   How can the core concepts and technologies associated with smart city development be adapted to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Nigerian cities?
2. What are the primary barriers and enablers to the implementation of smart city initiatives in Nigeria, and how can these factors be effectively managed?
3.   What are the potential social, economic, and environmental impacts of implementing smart city solutions in Nigerian urban areas?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:

Ho: Smart city concepts are not applicable or do not significantly contribute to improving urban planning and addressing urban challenges in Nigerian cities.

1.6 Significance of the Study

The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:

Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Architecture sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.

Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.

Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study is delimited to Eko City, Lagos. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.

1.9 Organization of the Study

The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.

Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.

Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.

Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.

Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.

1.10 Definition of Terms

1. Smart City
   A smart city refers to an urban area that uses digital technologies, data, and sensors to enhance the quality of life, optimize resource usage, and improve the efficiency of urban services such as transportation, healthcare, energy, and waste management. The goal is to create sustainable and livable environments through technology-driven solutions.
2. Urban Planning
   Urban planning is the process of designing and organizing the physical, social, and economic aspects of urban areas to ensure sustainable growth, functionality, and quality of life for residents. It includes land use, infrastructure development, housing, transportation, and environmental management.
3. Internet of Things (IoT)
   IoT refers to a network of interconnected devices, sensors, and systems that collect and exchange data to optimize city functions. In the context of smart cities, IoT can be applied to monitor and manage traffic, waste, energy consumption, and public services in real-time, enabling more responsive urban management.
4. Sustainability
   Sustainability in urban planning refers to the ability of a city to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This involves the integration of environmental, economic, and social factors into planning and development, such as reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy use.
5. Smart Governance
   Smart governance refers to the use of digital tools and platforms for public administration, enhancing citizen engagement, transparency, and participation. In smart cities, e-governance tools allow for efficient decision-making, real-time feedback, and improved service delivery to citizens.
6. Smart Infrastructure
   Smart infrastructure includes the physical systems (such as roads, utilities, buildings, and transportation networks) that are enhanced with sensors, automation, and data analytics to improve performance and reduce inefficiencies. This can lead to reduced energy consumption, optimized traffic flows, and better waste management.
7. Urban Resilience
   Urban resilience is the capacity of a city to withstand and recover from various challenges, such as natural disasters, climate change, and social disruptions. A resilient smart city uses technology to monitor risks, predict future challenges, and implement adaptive measures that ensure the city can continue to function in the face of adverse conditions.