Abstract
The history of Abuja urban development presents an interesting
interplay of history, politics, rent-seeking and land acquisition.
This was started in 1975 following the submission of report of findings
on the suitability of Abuja as a federal capital. This set in motion
a series of events that culminated in the carving out of Abuja from
three separate states and relocation of federal capital to the city.
A cursory look at Abuja today reveals complex urban problems which
the Government is grappling with in a curious way. This state of
affairs raises questions about sustainability and liveability of
Abuja as a 21st century city. Are we seeing another Lagos in Abuja?
Apo Village represents an informal settlement deemed to have arisen
as a result of failure of conventional urban development strategies.
Despite being faced with constant threat of eviction and demolition,
this huge enclave continues to house thousands of Nigerians in the
informal sector who are faced with the only option of finding housing
for themselves.
This paper will examine the relevance of neo-liberal ideology in
understanding the housing difficulties facing the country. It will
also seeks go beyond the neo-liberal argument to explain the fate
of millions on Nigerians who are either homeless or living in sub-standard
housing. The overarching corruption and greed fed by the economic
globalisation as well as internal political dynamics will be analysed.
It will employ qualitative method of research to investigate the
liveability of Apo Village and survival strategies of the inhabitants.
The paper will argue that 'urban inclusiveness' and 'cities for
all' campaigns will continue to be meaningless unless the current
global economic interdependence is altered as a way of addressing
the problems of corruption and accountability.
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