Urban Informality in Lagos

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to investigate the urban structure of mobility in Lagos from the perspective of the non-vehicular commuter and informal spaces. The mega-city has experienced extreme rapid growth in population over the past twenty years. This growth mixed with the disorganized planning of Lagos has resulted in severe over-congestion, negligent transit systems and dangerous streets. The issue that Lagos faces is one of a very complex nature and it can be viewed from multiple perspectives such as from a historical, cultural, social, socio-economic and urban viewpoints. The intent of this thesis investigation is to study the social & urban perspective of informality and to propose three intervention sites that responds to the needs of the community as well as suggest strategies for community empowerment.