Urban governance challenges for sustainable development in Nigeria: Implications from the Owerri urban renewal policy

Abstract

Urban renewal is a highly prioritized agenda by both developed and developing countries globally in a bid to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs). The renewal program aligns with the growing trend of making cities central to the rise and development of modern civilization. However, cities refer to complex entities that serve as people's living spaces. The article explores the gradual development of Owerri's urban city and provides perspectives on the challenges and potentials of its planning and management through fieldwork conducted. During the colonial era, Nigeria's semi-urban nature witnessed decades of transformation involving building roads with overhead bridges, modern residences, and commercial centers. The new renewal effort in Owerri has led to the demolition of private properties and market stalls, displaced traders, and deaths, resulting in legal disputes. The paper aims to provide a background of Owerri's urban development while exploring the sociocultural and political challenges associated with Governor Okorocha’s (2011-2019) renewal effort, which falls under the fourth phase of Owerri's urban regeneration. The article adopted the Models of Urban Governance framework to explain the governance of Owerri. Findings show how public opinions, legal processes, and stakeholder cooperation have become fundamental in urban renewal policy for sustainable development.