NIQS urges action on rapid urbanisation

The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveying (NIQS) has called for accelerated action to tackle urbanisation crisis, noting that despite improved budgetary allocation, urbanisation crisis still persist in the country. The President, Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveying, QS Kene C. Nzekwe stated this during the World Habitat Day Celebration with the theme “Urban Crisis Response” organised […]

The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveying (NIQS) has called for accelerated action to tackle urbanisation crisis, noting that despite improved budgetary allocation, urbanisation crisis still persist in the country.

The President, Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveying, QS Kene C. Nzekwe stated this during the World Habitat Day Celebration with the theme “Urban Crisis Response” organised by the Faculty of Environmental Design and Management at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Highlighting the challenges of urbanisation, he stated that “Despite several Government interventions, such as the renewed hope housing programme, renewed hope cities and estates, single-digit interest rate mortgages by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), the Shelter Afrique Development Bank partnership to build a landmark 5,000 housing units in the first phase, with plans for nationwide expansion, and the improved budget allocation of N32 billion for special housing initiatives, the challenges remain very visible.

“Inadequate infrastructure including roads, drainage channels, water supply, and sanitation, is at the forefront of the challenges that escalates urban crises. The increased rural-urban migration further contributes to the already existing housing shortage, particularly to affordable housing options.

“This results in overcrowding and the proliferation of informal settlements and slums. In addition, these forms of urban crises create social inequalities often disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, including the poor and marginalised,”

He noted that another critical challenge is the effect of urbanisation on environmental degradation, especially the loss of green spaces, ecological imbalance, urban pollutions and floods,” he explained

QS Nzekwe further stated that addressing the theme of this year’s World Habitat Day, “Urban Crisis Response,” highlights the need for collective action to tackle these issues and create sustainable, resilient, and liveable cities

On solutions, he said “Professionals need to develop comprehensive plans that integrate environmental, social, and economic considerations to create resilient and liveable cities just as expertise in urban renewal and regeneration is necessary to revitalise deteriorated areas and promote sustainable urban development,”

He added that Nigeria “Needs to prioritise sustainable infrastructure development, including affordable housing, green spaces and efficient transportation systems. Professionals should be knowledgeable about sustainable transportation systems, including bike-friendly streets, pedestrianfriendly infrastructure, and public transportation options.”