A Review of the Legal and Regulatory Frameworks as Pathways to Fostering Smart Cities in Nigeria.

Abstract:

The creation of smart cities aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, which focuses on making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. This paper explores the role of laws and policies in promoting the development of smart cities within Nigeria. It assesses existing frameworks, identifies gaps, and highlights potential areas for reform, drawing insights from South Korea, which is known for being the first country to introduce a Smart City Act. Preliminary findings indicate that while Nigeria has made progress in implementing urban development policies and other sector-specific laws, there is no comprehensive national law dedicated to smart city governance like South Korea’s. Additionally, current Nigerian laws have not been updated to address the opportunities and challenges associated with smart cities. The study underscores that creating smart cities in Nigeria requires more than just technological progress; it necessitates a comprehensive legal framework that integrates innovation, governance, and active community involvement. The article argues that by overcoming legal and regulatory obstacles and aligning urban policies with smart city principles, Nigeria can build more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable urban areas. It recommends, among other things, the adoption of a national law for smart city governance and the reform of existing laws.