Challenges and Prospects of Spatial Data Infrastructure for Physical Development Planning in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) plays a pivotal role in land-use planning, 
infrastructure provision and sustainable urban development. In Lagos State, 
SDI adoption remains low despite the growing complexity and need of urban 
data-oriented decision-making. This paper examines the challenges impeding 
the implementation of SDI and its potential to support physical development 
planning. The paper adopted a mixed-method design that incorporates 
qualitative data obtained by use of structured interviews and field observations 
alongside spatial analysis of eleven development plans, consisting of Master 
Plans and Model City Plans. Data format, data compatibility, and spatial 
integrity were assessed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools. 
The results indicate the existence of a few technical and institutional 
limitations: ongoing use of AutoCAD instead of GIS-based formats, 
inconsistent use of coordinate systems, disaggregated spatial data, inadequate 
GIS capabilities of employees, and ineffective inter-agency collaboration. 
These issues have compromised effective planning, sharing of information and 
coordination of different development plans. In spite of these shortcomings, 
the research reveals an emerging scenario: growing political support for 
adoption of digital planning tools, expansion of technical capacity within 
governmental institutions and willingness of planning professionals to utilise 
spatial technologies. The paper suggests feasible measures such as the creation 
of centralised cloud-based geospatial database, data format standardisation, 
use of GIS platforms, institutional framework coordination and improvement 
of capacity building. The study concludes that Lagos State can enhance its 
spatial data systems by managing these challenges through institutional 
reforms and technological investments to facilitate more efficient, inclusive 
and resilient urban planning. The results are relevant to the wider discussion 
of sustainable land management and infrastructure governance in African 
cities.