QUEST FOR HOUSING AND PRESERVATION OF WETLANDS IN NIGERIA: A CASE STUDY OF LAGOS STATE

Abstract

Global housing shortage is phenomena, manifesting particularly in metropolitan cities and its fringes, all around the world. In a developing country like Nigeria, the problem is humongous and Lagos State seems to be the hardest hit by the scourge. The Lagos scenario is worsened by the non availability of land for housing development given the State land-mass ratio to its water bodies and the ever-growing population. The quest to surmount the problem of land shortages for housing in Lagos State has resulted in the encroachment on the State water bodies including Wetlands, Swamps and Mangroves by property developers through sand-filling and reclamation. The long-time consequences of this encroachment are detrimental to sustainable development of the environment and wellbeing of man in the society. The immediate consequence of the encroachment is exemplified in the recurrent flooding and building collapse syndrome in the State. Using the doctrinal research methodology, the paper examines the relationship between housing needs, land shortages, Wetlands encroachment and environmental degradation in Lagos State. It highlights the sacred needs for Wetlands within the Ecosystem and discusses the nexus between lands, housing and environmental protection. The paper found that encroachment on the water bodies is detrimental to the ecosystem, human health and sustainable development. Such encroachment exposes the aquatic plants and animals to the danger of loss of habitat and extinction. The problem also engenders incessant flooding and the resultant loss of life and properties in the State. Houses built on these Morasses are not only expensive to construct but are also susceptible to foundation rupture and collapse. The paper calls for the protection of the State water bodies through public advocacy, policy direction and legislative intervention. It reiterates the need for urban renewal strategies, satellite cities development and public-private partnership funding of housing development.