South-East Records Nigeria’s Highest Built-Up Land Area at 15.6%

The South-East has the highest share of built-up land among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with 15.6% of its land area classified as developed. Data cited from UNDP Nigeria places the South-West second at 11.65%, followed by the South-South at 6.77%. The figure reflects the spread of homes, markets, roads, factories and commercial properties across the region. Development is not limited to state capitals. Cities and towns such as Onitsha, Nnewi, Aba, Enugu, Owerri, Awka, Nsukka, Orlu and Abakaliki have grown through trade, manufacturing, private enterprise and residential expansion. Private investment, the Igba Boi apprenticeship system, diaspora remittances and community projects have helped shape this growth. However, a high built-up area does not automatically mean better roads, electricity, drainage or living conditions. The next challenge is to connect the region’s growing towns and cities with better planning, transport, infrastructure and industrial development. This could turn the South-East’s expanding settlements into a stronger regional economic corridor.

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