Background of the Study
Urban green spaces—including parks, gardens, and recreational areas—play a vital role in enhancing the quality of urban life and economic well-being. In Nigerian cities, the integration of green spaces into urban planning has gained momentum as policymakers recognize their potential to improve public health, attract tourism, and stimulate local economies (Ogunleye, 2023). Green spaces not only serve as communal areas that foster social cohesion but also contribute to environmental sustainability by mitigating pollution and reducing urban heat islands. Recent initiatives have sought to expand and upgrade these spaces as part of broader urban regeneration projects. Research conducted between 2023 and 2025 suggests that cities with well-maintained green spaces tend to experience higher property values, increased business activities in surrounding areas, and improved overall economic performance (Chinwe, 2024). Despite these benefits, many Nigerian cities struggle with the effective integration and maintenance of urban green spaces due to rapid urbanization, inadequate funding, and poor urban planning. This study investigates the link between urban green spaces and economic well-being, exploring how strategic investments in green infrastructure can yield tangible economic and social benefits. It also examines the challenges that impede the optimal use of green spaces and considers policy measures that could promote more inclusive and sustainable urban environments.
Statement of the Problem
Even though urban green spaces offer multiple economic and social benefits, their presence in Nigerian cities remains limited and unevenly distributed. Many urban areas face challenges such as encroachment, neglect, and underinvestment in green infrastructure (Adebisi, 2023). This lack of adequate green spaces not only diminishes the quality of life for urban residents but also curtails the potential economic uplift that can be derived from enhanced environmental aesthetics and recreational opportunities. The absence of coordinated urban planning policies that prioritize green infrastructure further exacerbates these issues. As a result, the expected improvements in property values, tourism, and local business development are not fully realized. This study seeks to identify the factors limiting the development and maintenance of urban green spaces and to assess how their expansion could contribute to improved economic well-being in Nigerian cities (Ibrahim, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
• To evaluate the impact of urban green spaces on economic well-being.
• To identify challenges hindering the development and maintenance of green spaces.
• To propose policy recommendations for enhancing green infrastructure in cities.
Research Questions:
• How do urban green spaces influence economic well-being in Nigerian cities?
• What are the primary barriers to the effective development of green spaces?
• What policy interventions can promote sustainable urban green infrastructure?
Research Hypotheses:
• H1: The presence of urban green spaces is positively correlated with improved economic well-being.
• H2: Insufficient funding and poor planning hinder the development of green spaces.
• H3: Enhanced policy frameworks can significantly improve the economic benefits of urban green spaces.
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
The study focuses on major Nigerian cities that have initiated green space projects. Limitations include variability in local planning practices and difficulties in measuring indirect economic impacts.
Definitions of Terms:
• Urban Green Spaces: Areas dedicated to vegetation and recreational use within urban settings.
• Economic Well-Being: A measure of economic prosperity and quality of life.
• Green Infrastructure: Systems that use natural processes to provide urban benefits.
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