Urban theories and urbanization perspectives in cities across Nigeria

Abstract

One of the emerging trends from urbanization is urban growth patterns. These growth patterns are primarily based on the growth of the local economy that directly affects agricultural lands. In Africa, the local economy has spurred the extinction of many agrarian sectors. Yet, few studies at the regional level have paid attention to these changes. Using different scientific literature on global urbanization, urban remote sensing, and economic geography, this study aims to understand the theory behind urban developments in Nigeria. The primary data were collected at two study regions in the country's eastern and southern parts, making it a big dataset to assess urban formation in these areas. We examine urban development’s evolving from infrastructural development, expansion, change in land use, and urban job migration opportunities that affect agrarian activities. At the same time, white cola job opportunities are limited in urban areas, substantially increasing small-scale businesses. We introduce the notion of natural resource urbanism, which implies urbanisation triggered by natural resource revenue to strengthen the dwindling local economy. The infusion of shared natural resource revenue creates a reform in the local economy and the advent of a consumption base economy. Shared natural resource revenue drives massive infrastructural developments, but its dependence on natural resource availability in the states raises concerns about its long-term sustainability.