Analysis of Informal Settlement Upgrading Approaches in Makoko, Lagos State

Makoko, one of Lagos's largest and most internationally recognised informal waterfront settlements, presents a complex planning and architectural challenge that has attracted varied government intervention strategies over the past decade. This study analyses the approaches to informal settlement upgrading applied in Makoko, examining the physical, social, and governance dimensions of upgrading initiatives and their outcomes for resident communities. A qualitative case study methodology was employed, drawing on documentary analysis of government upgrading proposals and reports, structured interviews with thirty-five current residents across three community sections, observations of built fabric change between 2018 and 2024 using sequential satellite imagery, and interviews with five civil society organisations active in the settlement. Four distinct upgrading strategies were identified: in-situ incremental upgrading, partial resettlement with land regularisation, demolition and phased reconstruction, and community-led self-help improvement. Analysis reveals that community-led incremental approaches produced the highest resident satisfaction and physical improvement continuity, while top-down demolition strategies generated significant social disruption and asset loss without commensurate improvements in housing quality or tenure security. The community's self-organised floating school design demonstrated the potential of vernacular innovation as a low-cost architectural response to amphibious living conditions. The study argues for a community co-design model as the preferred upgrading methodology for Makoko, grounded in tenure regularisation as a prerequisite for sustainable physical investment. Policy recommendations are directed at the Lagos State Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development. Keywords: informal settlement upgrading, Makoko, Lagos, community participation, waterfront settlements.