Research Topics in Architecture: Nigerian Context
Prepared by Chisom
This document contains refined research topics based on architectural research methods,
focusing on key urban and rural development challenges in Nigeria.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Public Parks and Open Spaces in Nigerian
Cities
1. Introduction
Public parks and open spaces play a crucial role in urban life, providing recreational,
environmental, and social benefits. However, in many Nigerian cities, these spaces are
either underutilized, poorly maintained, or encroached upon due to urban expansion and
inadequate planning.
2. Motivation
The motivation for this research stems from the increasing urbanization of Nigerian cities,
leading to reduced green spaces and limited recreational areas.
3. Objectives and Scope
### Objectives
- To assess the current state of public parks and open spaces in Nigerian cities.
- To analyze the level of accessibility and inclusivity of these spaces.
- To examine the impact of public parks on urban residents’ quality of life.
- To evaluate the maintenance, security, and management challenges affecting these spaces.
- To propose design and policy recommendations for improving public parks in Nigeria.
4. Description of the Research Work
The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative
techniques, including literature review, site visits, surveys, and comparative analysis.
5. Conclusions / Summary of the Work
Preliminary findings indicate that while Nigerian cities have designated public parks, many
are underutilized due to poor maintenance, lack of security, and limited accessibility.
6. List of Case Studies
- Millennium Park, Abuja
- Freedom Park, Lagos
- Jabi Lake Park, Abuja
- Port Harcourt Pleasure Park
- Murtala Muhammed Park, Kano
7. List of References / Literature Studies
- Groat, L., & Wang, D. (2013). *Architectural Research Methods*. Wiley.
- Gehl, J. (2011). *Life Between Buildings: Using Public Space*. Island Press.
- Whyte, W. H. (1980). *The Social Life of Small Urban Spaces*. Project for Public Spaces.
- Lynch, K. (1960). *The Image of the City*. MIT Press.
- Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act, 1992.
Designing Sustainable and Affordable Healthcare Centers in Rural Nigeria
1. Introduction
Access to quality healthcare remains a significant challenge in rural Nigeria, where
inadequate infrastructure, poor funding, and limited access to medical facilities contribute
to high mortality rates.
2. Motivation
The motivation for this research stems from the urgent need to bridge the healthcare gap
between urban and rural areas in Nigeria.
3. Objectives and Scope
### Objectives
- To analyze the architectural challenges facing rural healthcare centers in Nigeria.
- To explore sustainable building materials and energy-efficient design strategies.
- To propose cost-effective, scalable architectural solutions for rural hospitals and clinics.
4. Description of the Research Work
This research follows a mixed-methods approach, incorporating qualitative and
quantitative analyses, including literature review, site visits, surveys, and case study
analysis.
5. Conclusions / Summary of the Work
The study highlights that sustainable design strategies can significantly improve healthcare
delivery in rural Nigeria by reducing construction and maintenance costs while enhancing
patient comfort and medical efficiency.
6. List of Case Studies
- Primary Healthcare Center, Ewekoro
- Kebbi Solar-Powered Clinic
- Gombe State Rural Health Center
- Ekiti State Model Healthcare Facility
- Butaro Hospital, Rwanda
7. List of References / Literature Studies
- Groat, L., & Wang, D. (2013). *Architectural Research Methods*. Wiley.
- World Health Organization (WHO) Reports on Rural Healthcare Infrastructure.
- Nigerian National Health Policy, 2016.
The Influence of Lecture Hall Design on Student Learning in Nigerian
Universities
1. Introduction
Lecture halls serve as the primary learning spaces in universities, playing a crucial role in
student engagement, knowledge retention, and overall academic performance.
2. Motivation
The motivation for this study arises from the widespread infrastructural challenges in
Nigerian university lecture halls.
3. Objectives and Scope
### Objectives
- To assess how lecture hall design elements such as acoustics, lighting, and ventilation
affect student learning.
- To analyze the impact of seating arrangements and spatial layout on student engagement.
- To examine the influence of digital technology integration on lecture hall effectiveness.
4. Description of the Research Work
This research adopts a mixed-methods approach, integrating architectural analysis with
educational research, including literature review, site visits, surveys, and comparative
analysis.
5. Conclusions / Summary of the Work
Findings from this study suggest that many Nigerian university lecture halls do not provide
optimal learning conditions due to poor lighting, inadequate ventilation, and uncomfortable
seating arrangements.
6. List of Case Studies
- Main Auditorium, University of Lagos
- Lecture Theatre, University of Ibadan
- Covenant University Lecture Halls
- Ahmadu Bello University Lecture Halls
- Obafemi Awolowo University Amphitheater
7. List of References / Literature Studies
- Groat, L., & Wang, D. (2013). *Architectural Research Methods*. Wiley.
- Neuman, W. L. (2014). *Social Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative
Approaches*. Pearson.
- UNESCO Reports on Learning Spaces in Higher Education.
