COVID-19 and the Built Environment: Informal Sector, Housing, and Shock Challenges in Nigeria

Housing is a basic need and a key unit of a human being’s survival. It often represents the largest investment and biggest achievement in an individual’s life. The continuous challenge in housing requirements vis-à-vis the recent outbreak of COVID-19 has subjected many to staying at and working from home. This has demanded the need to reevaluate housing quality and housing environments. This assessment cannot be underestimated in Nigeria, as scholarly works have reported the low standard of housing across the country. Inadequate housing and low-income levels have subjected countless people to living in unhabitable apartments at the detriment to personal health. This chapter evaluates housing planning and design in residential areas, with a specific focus on informal settlements, throughout Nigeria. Problems such as lack of space, lack of adequate security, and light and noise pollution are reported to affect one’s residence. Other factors identified include the inadequate level of understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic, its prevention, and the relevance of physical distancing. Based on observation, the lack of work and low level of literacy have affected peoples’ adherence to public laws—nationwide. It is recommended that the government continue to stimulate more public information on the preventive measures of COVID-19, create job opportunities, and ensure better housing quality and standards for its citizenry, especially the less fortunate. It is expected that this will promote the well-being of the population and mitigate against future shocks as well as the spread of disease outbreaks.