Assessment of Housing Supply and Underlying Factors of Provision in Abuja, FCT, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assesses the current state of housing supply and explores the underlying factors influencing housing provision in urban Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria. As Abuja experiences rapid population growth and urbanisation, the demand for adequate and affordable housing has intensified. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 206 housing providers across Phases 2 and 3 of the city through structured questionnaires. The findings reveal that the organised private sector dominates housing supply (82.9%), while public-private partnerships and federal government initiatives contribute significantly less. Providers' discretion emerged as the most influential factor (44.2%) in housing design and delivery, followed by economic considerations (28.2%), with limited regard for residents' preferences or affordability. These dynamics point to a supply-driven housing market that prioritises profitability over user needs, contributing to a growing disconnect between housing provision and socio-cultural realities. The study calls for inclusive, evidence-based housing policies that integrate user preferences, discourage speculative development, and promote culturally responsive urban planning in Abuja’s housing sector.