Abstract

The increasing levels of urbanisation globally has created a situation in which cities are growing rapidly.  The growth has had lasting impacts on the infrastructure and environment of the city, often leading to pollution and other environmental impairment. This study examines the environmental challenges in informal settlements of Abuja, Nigeria. Data collected were on the environmental challenges in five purposively selected informal settlements in Abuja, Nigeria. Utilizing a qualitative and quantitative research approach, the paper investigates the environmental challenges of rapid urbanisation in the city. The major research instruments used were questionnaire for quantitative data and observation schedule for qualitative analysis of the study area. Quantitative data were subjected to statistical analysis using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Qualitative data were subjected to content analysis. Major findings showed that rapid urbanisation has led to an increase in all urban environmental problems. The paper will make a valuable contribution to the understanding of the environmental challenges associated with urbanisation of Abuja and help identify potential solutions. The paper concludes that Abuja’s environmental issues are a direct result of rapid urbanisation and lack of adequate planning as well as infrastructure deficits. The paper recommends that proper city planning and management are necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of urban environments. This paper provides valuable insights for other cities facing similar challenges as well as a useful case study for future investigations.

Key Words: Urbanisation, Environmental challenges, Informal Settlements, Abuja, Nigeria