"Sustainable Housing Development in Nigeria: A Sociological Perspective”

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Date
2010
Authors
Badru, F.A
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Department of Sociology, University of Lagos, Nigeria
Abstract
This article discusses the conceptual, theoretical and empirical issues surrounding housing development in general and homelessness in particular relying on secondary data. It points to the sociological significance of homelessness for an individual or the group to which he or- she belongs and also cites local examples to buttress the position The chapter examines the causes of the problem, alludes to some kinds of homeless people, addresses consequences of the phenomenon and suggests sustainable strategies to mitigate the social problem. The kernel of the chapter is that socio-cultural needs of the people should be taken into consideration when housing needs and policies are conceived and evaluated. The vulnerable groups such as destitute and aged who cannot meet their housing needs should be considered when housing policies of the nation are being conceived. The wishes of the majority of the citizenry must not be jettisoned on the platform of professionalism. This must recognize the inherent community's limited resources and constraints. The contrary will be elitist and exclusionary. The chapter contends that reform in government public policy such as monetization among public sector employees is not sufficient to attack homelessness as this excludes majority of Nigerians who live below the poverty line and do not work for government-owned establishment. More importantly, it is necessary to adopt strategies that are inclusive, participatory and ensure sustainable housing development for all.
Description
Keywords
Housing , Homelessness , Sustainable Housing , Vulnerable Groups , Sociological Approach , Nigeria
Citation
Badru, F.A (2010b): “Sustainable Housing Development in Nigeria: A Sociological Perspective” in Oyekanmi, F.A.D, Badru, F. A., and Bammeke, F. (Eds.) (2010). Globalization and Social Pathologies: Rethinking the State of Social Welfare in Nigeria (Lagos, Department of Sociology, University of Lagos, Lagos Nigeria) Chapter 3, Pp 41-55