Public realm in two vastly different Nigerian cities is briefly examined as a subset of broader development patterns. Several project cases are used to display public realm approaches moving forward. Like many cities, Lagos has evolved over centuries via organic incremental growth. Abuja was conceived from its outset as a whole, as a new planned capital city. The capital was moved from Lagos in the 1980’s because it was viewed as a more central and neutral location for Nigeria’s many ethnic and religious group.
Three in-progress project case studies are highlighted to depict opportunities to address challenges and offer implementation strategies in both Lagos and Abuja.
A set of principles were developed to guide the development of site program for the project. These principles were focused on getting the community engaged with one another around fitness, recreation, entertainment, culture and learning, and play.
Security is a significant issue in both Lagos and the nation. The Azuri development plans establish a range of secured spaces across public, semi-public and privatized public realms. Streets are public; plazas are semi-public in that they are carefully managed and patrolled by building owners; and privatized public spaces are accessible only to residents and tenants.
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