Background of the Study
Housing markets in Nigeria are increasingly challenged by the rapid pace of population growth, raising critical questions about their capacity to absorb the rising demand for residential accommodation. In many urban areas, population growth has outstripped the ability of the housing market to deliver adequate and affordable housing, resulting in significant supply shortages and a proliferation of informal settlements (Uche, 2023). The capacity of housing markets to absorb population growth depends on multiple factors, including the availability of land, the efficiency of construction processes, regulatory frameworks, and access to financing. Despite efforts by both the public and private sectors to expand the housing stock, persistent challenges such as bureaucratic delays, high construction costs, and infrastructural deficits continue to limit market responsiveness (Anyanwu, 2024). In addition, market fragmentation and inconsistent policy implementation contribute to regional disparities, where some urban centers are better equipped to manage growth than others. The dynamic nature of Nigeria’s demographic trends, including high fertility rates and significant urban migration, further complicates the situation. As developers attempt to cater to a diverse range of income groups, the mismatch between housing supply and demand becomes more pronounced, with low- and middle-income segments particularly affected (Ekwueme, 2025). This study seeks to evaluate the capacity of Nigeria’s housing markets to absorb rapid population growth, examining the interplay between market forces, policy interventions, and demographic trends. By leveraging a combination of quantitative market data and qualitative analyses, the research aims to identify key constraints and opportunities within the housing market. The ultimate goal is to provide evidence-based recommendations for enhancing market capacity, ensuring that housing development keeps pace with population expansion while promoting affordability and quality.
Statement of the Problem
The rapid increase in Nigeria’s population has exposed significant weaknesses in the capacity of housing markets to absorb new demand. Many urban areas are characterized by a persistent housing shortage, with supply failing to keep pace with the growing population. This shortfall has led to rising property prices, overcrowding, and the spread of informal settlements. Several factors contribute to this problem, including inefficient land allocation, high construction costs, and fragmented regulatory policies that hinder swift housing delivery (Uche, 2023). Furthermore, the housing market’s inability to adapt to diverse consumer needs has resulted in significant disparities between different income groups, exacerbating social inequality. The lack of robust data and coordinated policy efforts further complicates efforts to address these issues, leaving policymakers and developers with an incomplete picture of market dynamics (Anyanwu, 2024). The current market conditions not only affect the quality of housing available but also have broader economic implications, such as reduced labor mobility and increased pressure on urban infrastructure. This study is designed to systematically assess the housing market’s capacity to absorb population growth by analyzing key constraints and evaluating the effectiveness of current policy measures. The research aims to bridge the gap between housing supply and demand, ultimately contributing to more sustainable and inclusive urban development (Ekwueme, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on major urban centers in Nigeria over the past decade. It employs market data, policy reviews, and stakeholder interviews. Limitations include data inconsistencies and regional disparities.
Definitions of Terms
• Housing Market Capacity: The ability of a housing market to meet the demand for residential units.
• Population Growth: The rate at which the number of individuals in a population increases.
• Informal Settlements: Residential areas developed without formal planning or adequate infrastructure.
• Market Responsiveness: The speed and effectiveness with which a market adjusts to changes in demand.
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