Why Nigerian Government Must Prioritize Eco-friendly Homes, Infrastructure, Along the Lagos-calabar Corridor

 

Hauwa Ali

 

In a world increasingly affected by climate change, the development of eco-friendly homes and infrastructure has become more than just a trend, it’s a necessity. This is especially true for rapidly urbanizing nations like Nigeria, where sustainable development can make or break long-term economic growth and environmental health. 

 

Recently, the Federal Government’s announcement of its acquisition of land along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway signals a significant opportunity to prioritize sustainable housing and infrastructure.

 

David Umahi, the Minister of Works, highlighted that the government plans to invest in housing, factories, and tourism hubs along the corridor. While these plans present enormous economic potential, it is crucial that they also embrace environmentally conscious design. If the government truly wants to future-proof its investment, there is no better time to focus on building eco-friendly homes and infrastructure. Here’s why this focus is essential for Nigeria’s future.

 

Nigeria faces a mounting housing crisis, with a deficit of over 20 million units, largely concentrated in urban areas. Many homes are built using unsustainable materials and designs that exacerbate environmental issues like deforestation and urban sprawl. In addition, the country’s high energy consumption—fueled by non-renewable sources—makes it essential for new housing developments to prioritize sustainability.

 

By focusing on eco-friendly homes, the government can mitigate some of these problems. Sustainable housing uses energy-efficient materials, promotes renewable energy, and ensures the optimal use of resources like water and electricity. These green homes are designed to reduce the overall carbon footprint, thereby helping Nigeria meet its climate change commitments while providing long-term economic benefits to resident.

 

Eco-friendly housing is not just about environmental responsibility; it also makes financial sense. By using sustainable materials and renewable energy sources, green homes can significantly reduce utility costs for residents. Solar panels, water recycling systems, and energy-efficient appliances can cut household costs by as much as 30% in the long term. In a country where many households struggle with rising energy bills, this could provide significant relief.

 

Moreover, green buildings tend to have higher property values and attract more investment, particularly from international markets that are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in their portfolios. By positioning itself as a leader in eco-friendly housing and infrastructure, Nigeria can attract foreign direct investment, boost local economies, and create thousands of new jobs in the green energy and construction sectors.

 

David Umahi also noted that tolling roads alone would not bring immediate returns on investment for the Lagos-Calabar Highway project. Developing eco-friendly housing and sustainable infrastructure along this corridor would provide additional, long-term revenue streams, from property taxes to tourism income, creating a more robust financial ecosystem. 

 

Nigeria, like many developing nations, faces the dual challenge of rapid urbanization and environmental degradation. Without proper planning, the expansion of cities and infrastructure can lead to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and increased air and water pollution. This is particularly concerning given that Nigeria is already grappling with issues like desertification in the north and flooding in coastal areas.

 

Eco-friendly homes and infrastructure offer a way to mitigate these issues. Green building techniques prioritize the preservation of natural ecosystems, reduce energy consumption, and incorporate renewable resources like wind and solar energy. According to the minister, the government also plans to tap into the renewable energy potential of the coastal corridor by harnessing wind energy. These initiatives could significantly reduce Nigeria’s carbon emissions, which are currently among the highest in Africa.

 

In addition to reducing the environmental footprint, eco-friendly infrastructure can help protect Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations from the effects of climate change. Flood-resistant homes, for example, could offer much-needed protection for residents of coastal areas like Lagos and Calabar, which are increasingly prone to flooding due to rising sea levels.

 

### Long-Term Resilience Through Sustainable Planning

 

The development of eco-friendly homes and infrastructure is not just a short-term solution; it’s a long-term investment in Nigeria’s future. Climate change is expected to worsen in the coming decades, bringing more extreme weather patterns, food insecurity, and resource scarcity. By prioritizing sustainable development now, the Nigerian government can build resilience against these future threats.

 

For instance, incorporating green infrastructure like rainwater harvesting systems, permeable pavements, and urban green spaces can help cities better manage stormwater and reduce the risk of flooding. These solutions not only improve the quality of life for residents but also reduce the burden on public infrastructure, saving the government billions in maintenance and emergency response costs over time.

 

The Lagos-Calabar Highway project is a prime opportunity for the Nigerian government to set a new standard for eco-friendly development. While the economic potential of the project is undeniable, its success should not be measured solely by immediate financial returns but by its contribution to Nigeria’s long-term sustainability goals. 

 

By focusing on green homes and infrastructure, the government can address multiple challenges simultaneously: reducing the housing deficit, improving energy efficiency, boosting the economy, and protecting the environment. These initiatives would not only position Nigeria as a leader in sustainable development but also provide a higher quality of life for its citizens.

 

Now is the time for the government to act decisively. The future of Nigeria depends on how it responds to the challenges of today, and prioritizing eco-friendly housing and infrastructure is one of the most impactful ways it can secure a prosperous, sustainable future for all.