Innovative Approaches to Sustainable Land Management: Strategies for Urban Resilience in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

The twin factors of rapid urbanisation and population growth in Lagos have 
led to significant environmental challenges, including inadequate 
infrastructure, flooding and land degradation. This paper explores a range of 
Sustainable Land Management (SLM) practices, including green 
infrastructure, community engagement and the use of technology for 
monitoring and managing urban landscapes, with a focus on strategies that 
promote urban resilience. The conceptual framework rests on the principles of 
sustainability and resilience, while systematic review of literature was adopted 
as methodology. A comprehensive analysis of literature from peer-reviewed 
journals, policy reports and case studies conducted between 2010 and 2023 on 
efforts in sustainable land management, challenges to innovative approaches 
in sustainable land management and strategies for sustainable land 
management reveals an effective action plan that integrates ecological 
principles with urban planning. Key findings from the systematic review 
indicate that adaptive governance, stakeholder collaboration and promotion of 
ecosystem services are essential for fostering resilience against climate-change 
impacts. Additionally, the incorporation of local knowledge and cultural 
values significantly enhances community buy-in and sustainable practices. The 
review underscores the importance of context-specific solutions tailored to the 
unique socio-economic conditions of Lagos. By identifying best practices and 
potential pitfalls in implementation, this paper provides valuable insights for 
policymakers and urban planners seeking to create sustainable urban 
environments in Nigeria and similar contexts.