Description
ABSTRACT
Gwagwalada Municipal faces a significant housing shortage and affordability challenge, a situation exacerbated by internal migration dynamics. Internal migration in Nigeria is driven primarily by regional disparities at the macroeconomic level and a fundamental dearth of employment opportunities, resulting in suboptimal living conditions among diverse socioeconomic strata. Urbanization in Nigeria is a pressing concern, characterized by uncontrolled growth in slums and informal settlements and a persistent inadequacy of suitable housing options. Within this context, this study examines the ramifications of internal migration on housing shortages and affordability in Gwagwalada Municipal. To comprehensively grasp the impacts of internal migration on housing, this study draws on three theoretical frameworks: the Migration-Residence (M-R) model theory, the Push-Pull-Mooring Migration Model (PPM model), and the Agglomeration Theory. It employs mixed methods that encompass both qualitative and quantitative research techniques, and analyzes secondary data using descriptive statistics. The findings highlight how internal migration significantly affects urbanization, housing demand, and sociopolitical inequalities in Gwagwalada Municipal. Multiple factors, including a robust local economy, internal migration flows, and a flourishing tourism sector, collectively contribute to this phenomenon. Furthermore, the research reveals Gwagwalada Municipal’s attractiveness as a destination for internal migrants, exerting considerable strain on its infrastructure, public services, job markets, and availability of affordable housing. Considering these findings, the principal recommendation of this study pertains to the incentivization of private sector investors and developers through initiatives that support housing affordability and shortage reduction.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
COVER PAGE
TITLE PAGE
APPROVAL PAGE
DEDICATION
ACKNOWELDGEMENT
ABSTRACT
CHAPTER ONE
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE PROJECT
- STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
- RESEARCH QUESTION
- OBJECTIVEs OF THE STUDY
- SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
- DEFINITION OF TERMS
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
- INTRODUCTION
- THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
- CONCEPTUAL REVIEW
- Reasons for Migration in Nigeria
- Global Housing Shortage and Affordability
- Poverty and Inequality as a Problem of Housing in Nigeria
- Housing Policy Implementation Challenges
CHAPTER THREE
3.0 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
- INTRODUCTION
- RESEACH DESIGN
- RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
- DATA COLLECTION METHODS
- DATA ANALYSIS TECHNIQUES
- RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY
- LIMITATION OF THE STUDY
- ETHICAL STATEMENT
CHAPTER FOUR
- FINDINGS AND ANALYSIS
4.1 Introduction
4.2 The State of Residential Housing Price in Gwagwalada Municipal, Abuja
4.3 Housing Affordability
CHAPTER FIVE
- CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
REFERENCES
CHAPTER ONE
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the study
The right to housing is acknowledged as a fundamental human right that includes the ability to have a sufficient standard of living. The government is dedicated to ensuring that all citizens have access to a suitable home.
The three domains of government’s roles and obligations in ensuring that their citizens have adequate low-income housing are clearly laid out in the Constitution (Tyhotyholo, T, 2021).
Urban inhabitants rely on rural areas for essential resources like food and natural materials. Conversely, rural communities often depend on urban services for critical needs. This interdependence underscores the vital connection between the two. Rural residents play a significant role in supplying food and natural resources to urban centers, highlighting the symbiotic nature of the relationship. This dynamic can impact economic incentives for farmers, driving up prices and motivating increased crop production to meet urban demand. However, urbanization can also pose challenges to rural areas. The expansion of cities and suburbs can lead to the loss of fertile agricultural land, reducing the overall farming capacity (van Vliet, 2019). Additionally, human mobility between rural and urban areas, whether through temporary or permanent migration, commuting, or circular migration, can influence social and economic structures. Changes in agricultural fertility rates and social relations may occur as a result, potentially exacerbating income inequalities or fostering positive developments, depending on various factors.
Urbanization can also open avenues for rural employment by boosting the demand for goods and services from rural areas and improving access to urban markets (Gutu Sakketa, 2023). The significance of internal migration in a country’s economic, social, and demographic development cannot be overstated. This can significantly impact population growth and employment rates within nations, which is essential for the proper functioning of housing markets and overall economic growth. Additionally, it allows individuals and families to achieve their goals and aspirations (Bell et al., 2015; Bernard et al., 2014; Maza, 2020).
In the late 1980s, as the influence of the apartheid state diminished, so did official limitations to travel to and within Nigeria.
Mlambo (2018) and Posel (2010) associate the movement of employees from rural to urban areas within the Nigeria economy with the search for better employment opportunities. Studies conducted in Nigeria often conclude that immigrants’ post-migration wages increase. Njwambe et al. (2019) in a recent study found that people who move from rural to urban areas in Nigeria are more likely to secure formal employment than those who do not migrate. According to the United Nations, 71.3% of Nigeria’s population is expected to reside in urban areas by 2030. Although this depicts the growth of Nigeria, it also raises concerns about the future of rural areas in the country. As rural-urban migration becomes more frequent, these areas will continue to lose talented and progressive individuals, exacerbating the cycle of poverty and underdevelopment (Mlambo, 2018).
Nigeria remains one of the most unequal countries in the world, 25 years after the end of apartheid, in terms of income class, race, and gender. The ownership of household assets, including business ownership and household resources, access to high-quality education, which is largely determined by family wealth and race, municipal infrastructure, and stark differences in household income are all indicators of inequality. Historically, exporting regions of labor have generally lagged considerably behind the rest of the nation (Makgetla, 2020a). There has been a noticeable influx of people from rural areas into cities across the country, leading to increased traffic congestion, housing infrastructure backlogs, and, to some extent, an increase in crime levels. This trend highlights the challenges that rural-urban migration presents to both rural and urban communities in Gwagwalada municipal Abuja (Mlambo, 2018)
1.2 Statement of the Problem
In Gwagwalada municipal, rapid urbanization, along with housing and land demand, is one of the main issues facing the municipal and Nigeria government at large. As a result, it is reasonable for planners and policymakers in various countries to strive to solve the challenges related to housing and related issues, particularly the shortage of housing, which has recently become a critical global concern (Marutlulle, 2017). The argument for social housing in Nigeria has consistently been intertwined with the goals of urban development and social progress (Visagie, 2020). Obvious signs of poverty and inequality in cities include slums, informal settlements and substandard housing. According to the UN (2018), the resolution of housing issues remains a challenge that varies from country to country and over time. These issues are shaped by the unique social, economic, and political contexts of each country as well as the public’s sentiment towards living standards and their aspirations for housing improvements.
1.3 Research Question
At the end of this work answers to the following questions shall be provided:
- What are the effects of internal migration on housing demand and informal settlement in Gwagwalada Municipal Abuja?
- What is the context of internal migration and its impact on Gwagwalada Municipal Abuja?
- What is the impact of Internal Migration on housing demand and informal settlement in Gwagwalada Municipal Abuja?
- What are the recommendations for bridging the housing demand gap in Gwagwalada Municipal Abuja?
1.4 Research Objective
The main research objective is to examine the effects of internal migration on housing demand and informal settlement in Gwagwalada Municipal Abuja.
These sub-objectives are based on the aforementioned research questions:
- To investigate the context of internal migration and its impact on Gwagwalada Municipal Abuja.
- To assess the impact of internal migration on housing demand and settlement in Gwagwalada Municipal Abuja
- To provide recommendations to bridge the gap in housing demand in Gwagwalada Municipal Abuja.
1.5 Significance of the Study
This study will serve as a means of providing solution on the internal immigration, housing demand issues facing the Nigeria government. This study is motivated by the alarming increase in informal settlements and housing demand in Gwagwalada Municipal Abuja.
The study will serve as a means of making recommendation on how the issue of housing demand and shortages experience in Gwagwalada Municipal Abuja.
1.6 Definition of Terms
This section provides precise definitions of the key terms used throughout the research. This ensures that these terms are clearly understood in the context of this study, thus minimizing potential misunderstandings in the narrative. Further elaborations are available in the main text of the research when necessary. The key terms used in this study are internal migration, urbanization, human settlement, housing, and adequate housing.
Internal migration
This, also known as urbanization, adequate housing, and income disparity, is the key idea of this study. According to the World Bank (2016), internal migrants are those who have crossed administrative borders within a country. Internal migration is defined as “a shift from one migration-defining area to another that was made during a specific migration period and that involved a change of residence” in the United Nations guidelines for measuring internal migration. As a result, “a person who has shifted his customary place of residence from one migration- defining area to another at least once throughout the migration period” is defined as a “internal migrant”. Existing literature defines an internal migrant in a variety of ways. The most typical premise is “time,” where a person is classified as a migrant if they spend more time than a predetermined period away from their respective homes. However, there is no consensus regarding this timeframe (Sharma & Grote, 2019). While some studies use a month as the cutoff (Nguyen et al., 2015), others (Gröger et al., 2016) define a migrant as someone who has been away from home for at least six months.
Urbanization
Urbanization refers to the process of population growth and migration to urban areas, resulting in the transformation of land for residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation purposes.(United States Environmental Agency, 2022). Smaller towns and rural areas experience population declines, whereas cities experience population growth due to urbanization. Urbanization is a process that occurs over time rather than all at once(Jones & Linde, 2021). Urbanization indicates a shift in the social, cultural, and economic facets of society. It is a transformation into an urban area; a flow of people or activities; or an expansion of urban areas, populations, or processes (Hussain et al., 2016).
Human settlement
A recent study by Xie et al. (2022) indicated that the concept of the human settlement environment represents a comprehensive idea encompassing the amalgamation of quality of life and social well- being. Human settlements extend beyond the considerations of residential and ecological sustainability; they also encompass the economic and social sustainability of urban areas. Živković (2020) further buttresses human settlements to encompass the entire human community, including the social, physical, structural, spiritual, and cultural aspects that support it. Any place where a group of people lives, from a single house to a bustling city, and where they work toward their life objectives can be considered a settlement. The implications of human settlement can be described as follows: First, the focal point of human settlements is humanity itself, necessitating that they primarily fulfill the basic living requirements of individuals. Second, human settlements are intricately intertwined with the natural world in terms of habitation and productivity. Appropriateness of the natural environment significantly affects human health. Finally, human beings engage in interactions and connections with the natural environment (Xie et al., 2022).
Housing
Housing is a fundamental part of material culture and is present in almost all societies except nomadic ones. It is also a vital contributor to the nation’s construction efforts and overall economic development. From a sociological perspective, housing plays a crucial role in maintaining community life over time (Encyclopedia, 2018). Housing serves as the cornerstone of stability and security for both individuals and families. It stands at the heart of our social, emotional, and financial lives. Ideally, a home should function as a sanctuary, offering a tranquil, safe, and dignified space for living. It is an essential human right (OHCHR, 2019).
Adequate Housing
The provision of adequate housing has been recognized as a crucial aspect of the right to a satisfactory standard of living . Essential features of adequate housing encompass security of tenure, access to services, affordability, livability, accessibility, and location.(OHCHR, 2019). The following factors contribute to housing inadequacy: the lack of affordable housing for the urban poor; population growth; rural-to-urban migration; weak governance in areas such as policy, planning, land management, and urban development, leading to land speculation and grabbing; economic vulnerability and underpaid work; and discrimination, marginalization, and displacement due to conflict, natural disasters, and climate change (UN-Habitat, 2015). Raymond et al. (2011) Refuted the characterization of substandard housing as an inhabited dwelling exhibiting significant physical deficiencies, including inadequacies in plumbing, heating, electricity, hallways, and upkeep.
CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Introduction
The previous chapter thoroughly examined the research findings concerning the complex relationship between internal migration patterns and their impact on housing availability and affordability in Gwagwalada Municipal context. It is essential to emphasize that the core objective of this study was to gain a deep and nuanced understanding of these multifaceted connections. The results showed a clear link between rising housing costs in the city and the challenge of providing affordable housing options.
This chapter provides conclusions and recommendations based on the findings of this study. In addition, there are suggestions for potential areas for future research.
5.1 Conclusion
Internal migration spurred by better economic prospects and the promise of an improved life has led to a significant population surge in Gwagwalada Municipal. The move from rural to urban areas has strained the city’s resources and infrastructure, creating a pressing housing shortage, particularly for those with lower incomes. In the context of internal migration, housing shortages, and affordability in Gwagwalada Municipal, Abuja, it is crucial to acknowledge the broader historical and legislative background that frames this complex issue. Gwagwalada Municipal inherited a legacy of inequalities and injustices, including unequal land distribution, from the apartheid era. In response, the government introduced various legislations and policies to address housing shortages and availability.
Additionally, this study highlights that Gwagwalada Municipal attracts many internal migrants, creating challenges for infrastructure, services, job markets, and affordable housing. The rise of short-term rentals such as Airbnb further inflated property prices and influenced the housing market. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding housing affordability and pricing in the unique context of Gwagwalada Municipal. They also revealed that while the city’s population has grown significantly, the number of residential properties has not kept pace. Rental households are common and housing affordability is a significant concern.
Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach, including policy reforms, infrastructure development, and commitment to ensuring housing for all residents. By implementing these strategies, Gwagwalada Municipal can create a more equitable and inclusive urban environment for both the current and new residents.
In the following section, we present recommendations and propose areas for future research, drawing from the key findings, suggestions, and conclusions of this study.
5.2 Recommendations
In response to the pressing challenges posed by internal migration and its impact on housing affordability in Gwagwalada Municipal, a series of targeted recommendations are proposed. These recommendations encompass a holistic approach, aiming to address housing shortages and related issues while fostering a more inclusive and sustainable urban environment. By implementing these measures, Gwagwalada Municipal can take significant steps towards mitigating the effects of internal migration and enhancing the overall quality of life of its residents.
5.2.1. Encourage Private Sector Engagement and Collaboration
This study revealed that the responsibility for developing sustainable affordable housing has predominantly fallen on the public sector, non-governmental organizations, and low-profit entities,
with minimal engagement from the private sector. The City of Gwagwalada Municipal and the Nigerian government in general should encourage the development of affordable housing by providing incentives as a strategy to attract private sector investors and developers to participate in affordable housing projects. These strategies could include creating incentives, tax breaks, or partnerships that make affordable housing projects more financially viable for private companies for private sector involvement. Collaboration between the public and private sectors can lead to more affordable housing projects and a diversified housing market, which will influence the expansion of various housing options, including affordable housing units within the city. Promoting mixed- income neighborhoods will also ensure that residents from various income groups have access to decent housing. While promoting public-private partnerships, it is essential to uphold stringent quality assurance standards. Consequently, the government should establish and enforce rigorous quality regulations for all housing initiatives. This ensures that affordable housing units adhere to international standards of adequacy, offering secure and comfortable living environments.
Considering the duration, it takes for a township application process and housing project to pass from inception to completion. The government should spur private sector participation through a review and optimize government-subsidized housing programs to make them more efficient in allocating housing to citizens. The reduction of administrative bottlenecks and delays in the application and allocation process will improve access to affordable housing, help expedite housing development, lower delivery costs, and expand the pool of affordable housing options. One potential reform is to decentralize the land approval processes for housing purposes in Nigeria, shifting responsibility from the central government to local authorities. This would empower local governments with greater authority and autonomy to accelerate land administration procedures, particularly for low-income housing initiatives.
5.3.2 Infrastructural Investment and Development
The rapid influx of migrants and population growth in Gwagwalada Municipal can be attributed to its abundant economic opportunities and high quality of life. Rural areas often lack essential infrastructure, hindering residents’ ability to prosper and prompt their migration to urban centers equipped with modernized amenities, including education, healthcare, communication, and transportation systems. To address this issue, the Nigerian government should augment public investment and prioritize rural infrastructure development to counter rural-to-urban migration. Likewise, in response to the expanding population, the government should devise urban planning strategies that combine affordable housing with upgraded public transportation and vital amenities, such as sanitation facilities and healthcare services. By doing so, it can alleviate pressure on infrastructure, improve the overall quality of life, and enhance accessibility to opportunities. This approach aims to enhance the overall appeal of specific regions, while simultaneously expanding housing affordability.
5.3.3 Data Collection, Monitoring and Evaluation of Trends
Data plays a pivotal role in comprehending the scale and characteristics of internal migration and housing shortages in Gwagwalada Municipal. To effectively address these issues, the government should focus on gathering migration and demographic information, including income levels, family size, and special needs, for the population affected by housing shortages. These data aid in quantifying both the quantity and quality of housing deficits in specific areas, allowing for precise understanding of the most acute shortages. Establishing a robust monitoring system is essential for tracking trends such as migration and inadequate services over time. This system can illuminate whether housing shortages are worsening or improving and whether specific demographic groups bear a disproportionate burden. Additionally, it sheds light on the influence of government policies and economic factors. Armed with this data and trend analysis, the government can make informed, evidence-based policy decisions. It also facilitates the efficient allocation of resources, enabling the prioritization of new housing developments or interventions in areas where they are most needed. Furthermore, data provides a mechanism for assessing the effectiveness of implemented housing solutions through ongoing monitoring and evaluation.
5.3 Suggestions for Future Research
The primary goal of this study is to gain a comprehensive understanding of how internal migration impacts housing demand and informal settlement in Gwagwalada Municipal. Throughout the study, it was evident that there were areas warranting further investigation.
First, there is a pressing need for a study that delves into the effects of short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb on the housing market, affordability, and local communities of Gwagwalada Municipal. Such research is crucial to ensure that the city’s housing market maintains equity, affordability, and sustainability, while effectively managing the economic opportunities presented by tourism and the sharing economy. Given Cape Town’s substantial dependence on its tourism sector, it is imperative to strike a balance between economic gain and housing considerations.
Conducting comparative studies with other Nigeria cities and international urban centers grappling with similar challenges is essential. This comparative analysis enables Gwagwalada Municipal to draw lessons and best practices from the experiences of other cities, gather valuable insights into successful strategies, and foster collaboration in the pursuit of sustainable solutions to housing, affordability, and urban development issues.
