Identifying the barriers facing indigenous developers in achieving sustainable low-cost housing projects in Nigeria: stakeholders’ perspective

Abstract

Purpose Studies have shown that promoting indigenous housing developers can improve the delivery of sustainable and affordable projects, especially in developing countries such as Nigeria. Thus, the role of indigenous developers is pertinent to sustainable low-cost housing (LCH) projects and, with government support, may help achieve housing-related Sustainable Development Goals, such as sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11). Indigenous housing developers face challenges, and an in-depth study is required. This study examines the barriers faced by indigenous housing developers and proposes measures to enhance their role in delivering sustainable LCH projects and, by extension, advancing SDG 11. Design/methodology/approach This research employed a qualitative design. It conducted 46 face-to-face semi-structured interviews. The researchers used convenience sampling to select participants in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria. The study also analysed the data manually using a thematic approach. Findings The role of indigenous housing developers is critical to enhancing sustainable LCH delivery. The study also identified 18 barriers that indigenous developers face in achieving sustainable LCH projects. Findings indicate that these barriers may threaten sustainable LCH for urban low-income earners in Nigeria if left unchecked. This research proposed measures to enhance indigenous developers' roles and, by extension, improve the achievement of SDG 11. Originality/value The study's results will benefit the housing industries of developing countries with similar characteristics by motivating indigenous developers to deliver more sustainable LCH projects. Findings will also contribute to the body of knowledge on how to improve the achievement of SDG 11 through sustainable LCH provision.