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In a stunning turnaround from the usual patterns of planned cities, Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, emerges as an extraordinary example of success in civil engineering and construction. This city, conceived in the 1970s as a new capital for the country, was not only successfully built, but also prospered, attracting millions to its urban core.
Abuja, a city that defied common expectations of mega construction projects, is a rare success story among planned cities and civil engineering. While many of these initiatives are remembered for their disastrous results, Abuja stands out as a notable exception.
Originally, Lagos, the former capital of Nigeria, was a booming metropolis with some 24 million inhabitants. However, it faced serious problems such as wealth inequality, lack of permanent housing for many of its residents, poor sanitary conditions and the threat of rising sea levels. These challenges, along with the legacy of colonialism and the need for a more central and accessible capital, led to the decision to build Abuja.
How was the construction of Abuja?
Abuja's planning and construction process was meticulous and gradual, following a different approach to typical planned cities. The city was developed in phases, with a constant concern for meet the real needs of the population, instead of just creating an urban structure without a defined purpose. This natural growth strategy ensured that Abuja did not suffer the same fate as many other planned cities that remained empty or underused.
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Despite initial challenges, including political and economic issues, the construction of Abuja gathered pace under the military administration of Muhammadu Buhari. Significant investments in infrastructure, such as water, telecommunications and energy, have allowed the city to support one million inhabitants. The subsequent population boom further accelerated development, with the construction of schools, hospitals, and new residential districts.
Today, Abuja is not only the political center of Nigeria, but also a growing cultural and economic center
With an estimated population of 1,7 million inhabitants in the city and around 6 million in the metropolitan area, Abuja is the seventh largest city in Nigeria. The city hosts important government buildings, financial institutions, and is a focal point of tourism, culture and religion.
However, Abuja's history is not without its critics and problems. Social and economic inequalities persist, and marginalized areas face sanitation problems and access to basic services. The city still needs to address issues of equity and sustainability to continue its path of success.
However, Abuja stands out as a notable example of success in civil engineering and the construction of a planned city. Its existence and prosperity challenge the notion that planned cities are doomed to failure, showing that, with careful planning and response to real needs, such projects can not only be successful but also become vital to the growth and development of a nation.
Alberto Melo and Afro Brazilian specialist in international trade wants to help with the construction of ABUJA OR IE INVITE CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES FROM BRAZIL TO WORK IN NIGERIA ABUJA
Payment will be in oil. Counter trade