This study examined the nature of urban growth and housing problems in Kubwa District of
Bwari Area Council in Abuja. The pattern of growth was determined using spatial analysis, and
the housing problems were identified through questionnaire and field surveys. Data were
collected from primary and secondary sources. These include images of the study area for two
periods (2002 and 2012). Using polygon overlay, these images were analyzed to determine the
growth pattern in the area. Findings revealed that the area of Bwari District increased by 1034.8
hectares which is equivalent to 38.5% expansion between 2002 and 2012. It was found that new
settlements have evolved over the period, especially in the eastern side. However, the northern
and northwestern parts of the district witnessed the largest urban growth rate in the area. The
expansion of road network is another evidence of urban growth in the district. It was also
observed that the current expansion has changed the settlement pattern of Kubwa from radial to
irregular. Although there are mixed feelings among the respondents, it appears that
overpopulation, high cost of rent and poor ventilation are the major urban growth and housing
problems in the area. These can be attributed to the fact that housing demand exceeds the
housing supply in the area. Other problems include overcrowding, dirty toilet, poor sanitation,
inadequate water supply, irregular electricity supply, and ill health. One approach to the
challenges of urban growth in the area is to enhance basic amenities such as water supply,
electricity as well as refuse collection and management in the area. There is also the need to
review the masterplan of Kubwa District to accommodate the current and future expansion in the
area.