A Systematic Review of Architectural Solutions for Sustainable Housing and Community Empowerment in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper explores community engagement and empowerment for sustainable housing in Nigeria, addressing its severe housing crisis and urban poverty. Employing a systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines, forty-four relevant articles from four online databases spanning 15 years (2008-2022) were analysed. Utilizing descriptive statistics, thematic analysis, and meta-analysis, the study identifies key concepts, principles, practices, challenges, and opportunities for community-based architectural solutions. Results emphasize the necessity of community participation, empowerment, and ownership for housing project sustainability. Bioclimatic design, vernacular architecture, renewable energy, low-cost materials, and waste management emerge as common architectural solutions. Nevertheless, barriers and gaps, including a lack of policy support, funding, technical skills, awareness, and stakeholder coordination, impede effective implementation and scaling. The paper concludes with recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, researchers, and educators to enhance community engagement and empowerment in Nigerian sustainable housing efforts.